Opposition leaders, including former presidential candidates Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Peter Obi of the Labour Party, have strongly opposed President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.
Speaking at a press conference at the Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja, Atiku described the move as unconstitutional and accused Tinubu of abusing Section 305 of the Nigerian Constitution.
Call for Reversal
Atiku demanded that President Tinubu immediately revoke the state of emergency and reinstate the elected governor, deputy governor, and state assembly.
“We urge the National Assembly to reject this unconstitutional action and stand on the right side of history,” Atiku stated.
The opposition leaders fear that approving the emergency rule would set a dangerous precedent for democracy in Nigeria.
Political Crisis in Rivers
For nearly two years, Rivers State has been embroiled in a power struggle between former Governor Nyesom Wike and his successor Siminalayi Fubara, leading to a governance crisis.
On Tuesday, President Tinubu, citing security concerns and political instability, declared a state of emergency, suspending Governor Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all elected state lawmakers for six months.
He appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ette Ibas as the state’s administrator.
Military Presence in Rivers
Following the announcement, military forces swiftly took control of the Rivers Government House in Port Harcourt, reinforcing the federal government’s authority in the state.
While Governor Fubara called for calm, the Rivers State House of Assembly publicly backed President Tinubu’s decision.
Opposition Leaders Speak Out
Several opposition figures attended the press conference, including:
Peter Obi (represented by Yunusa Tanko)
Babachir Lawal (former Secretary to the Government of the Federation)
Nasir El-Rufai (former Kaduna State Governor)
Peter Ahmeh (National Secretary of the Coalition of United Political Parties)
Segun Showunmi (Convener of the Alternative)
Others, such as former governors Rotimi Amaechi (Rivers) and Kayode Fayemi (Ekiti), sent apologies but expressed support for the opposition’s stance.
What’s Next?
The National Assembly is expected to debate and vote on the emergency rule soon. Opposition leaders have vowed to block its approval, arguing that it threatens democratic governance in Nigeria.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
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