South-South Governors’ Forum opposes emergency rule in Rivers, proposes the rescission

Credit: NAN

The South-South Governors’ Forum has opposed the state of emergency proclaimed in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu, protesting that the political situation in Rivers State did not deteriorate to require emergency rule, considering the provisions of Section 305(3) of Nigerian Constitution.

The Chairman of the Forum, Governor Douye Diri of bayelsa State, made the remark on Wednesday in a statement in Port Harcourt.

Diri said that the section 305(3) stipulated that such a declaration should be considered under specific conditions like war, external aggression, and imminent invasion.

Rivers agog as Tinubu declared state of emergency in crisis between Wike and Fubara

He added that the conditions also included the breakdown of public order, existential threats to Nigeria, natural disasters, or other significant public dangers.

According to him, it is also worth noting that the Constitution outlines specific procedures for the removal of a governor and deputy governor, as detailed in Section 188.

‘’And similar provisions exist for the removal of members of the House of Assembly and the dissolution of the parliament.’’
Diri stated that in the current situation, it appeared that these guidelines might not have been fully considered.

He said that the forum noted the six-month declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers, a constituent part of the forum, and the suspension of two democratic institutions.

According to him, we recognise the President’s constitutional duty to maintain law and order throughout Nigeria, just as we are equally mandated to securing peace and stability in our states.

“We believe that the political disputes in Rivers State between the Governor and the House of Assembly should, ideally, be resolved through legal and constitutional means, rather than by executive fiat.

‘’As a path forward to reduce tensions and establish a foundation for enduring peace, the South-South Governor’s Forum proposes the rescission of the State of Emergency.

“In the meantime, we encourage all parties to remain calm, uphold peace and the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he said.

Diri stated that the ‘’moment for dialogue is now.’’