The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum has directed its state Attorneys General to legally challenge President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, arguing that Section 305(3) of the Nigerian Constitution requires judicial interpretation.
The decision was reached during a virtual meeting held on Wednesday, with the communiqué signed by the Forum’s Chairman and Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, and made public on Saturday. The governors expressed solidarity with Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the people of the state, condemning the suspension of elected officials and the imposition of emergency rule.
Rivers State has been embroiled in political turmoil for nearly two years, stemming from a power struggle between former Governor Nyesom Wike and his successor, Siminalayi Fubara. The crisis reached a tipping point last week, prompting President Tinubu to declare a state of emergency on Tuesday, March 18, 2025.
In his nationwide broadcast, Tinubu suspended Governor Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for six months. He appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas as the sole administrator to oversee the state during the emergency period.
The PDP governors criticized the move, stating, “The Forum reviewed the unfortunate proclamation of a state of emergency in Rivers State and frowned at the purported suspension of the governor, deputy governor, and state assembly members. We reaffirm our commitment to upholding the Constitution, defending democratic governance, and ensuring the rule of law prevails in Nigeria.”
They further resolved to challenge the constitutionality of Section 305(3), which grants the president powers to declare a state of emergency. “We have instructed our Attorneys General in PDP-controlled states to seek judicial interpretation of this provision,” the communiqué read.
The governors also pledged their support for Governor Fubara and the people of Rivers State, describing the current situation as a “difficult and trying moment” in the state’s political history.
The declaration of emergency rule has sparked widespread criticism, with many accusing the federal government of undermining democracy. The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has also condemned the move, stating that suspending elected officials will not bring peace to Rivers State.
As the legal battle unfolds, the PDP governors remain steadfast in their commitment to protecting democratic institutions and ensuring that the rule of law is upheld.
