Coalition of Nigerians Write African Union Over State of Emergency in Rivers*

A coalition of Nigerians has expressed dismay and disappointment over President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, describing it as a gross abuse of power and a blatant disregard for the Constitution, democratic principles, and the rule of law.

In a letter to the African Union Commission, the coalition urged the commission to take immediate action to address the situation and ensure that democratic principles are upheld.

See full letter below:

*COALITION OF NIGERIANS*
No. 24 Seriki Street, Off Odunsi Street, Bariga Shomolu Lagos, Nigeria.

March 26, 2025

His Excellency, Alhaji Mahmoud Ali Youssouf,
The Chairperson, African Union Commission,
P. O. Box 3243, Roosevelt Street W21K19,
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Your Excellency,

UNCONSTITUTIONAL DECLARATION OF STATE OF EMERGENCY IN RIVERS STATE: A THREAT TO DEMOCRACY IN NIGERIA AND AFRICA

We are writing to express our utmost dismay, disappointment, and disillusionment over the recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu. This decision is not only a gross abuse of power but also a blatant disregard for the Constitution, democratic principles, and the rule of law.

With President Tinubu as the Chairman of ECOWAS, Nigeria is expected to be a shining example of democratic governance in Africa. Unfortunately, President Tinubu’s actions have fallen woefully short of this expectation. His decision to suspend the democratically elected Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminilayi Fubara, and the State House of Assembly, is a clear violation of the Constitution and an affront to democratic principles.

Section 305 of the Constitution, which the President cited as the basis for his action, does not grant him the power to suspend or remove elected officials. The Constitution is clear on the grounds for removing a governor, which is explicitly stated in Section 188. The President’s action is a blatant disregard for the Constitution and the democratic process.

This action is not only a threat to democracy in Nigeria but also sets a dangerous precedent for the suppression of democratic institutions and the rule of law in Africa. It is imperative that the African Union Commission takes immediate action to address this situation and ensure that democratic principles are upheld.

The implications of this action are far-reaching, and if left unchecked, could lead to a breakdown in law and order, undermine the legitimacy of democratic institutions, and damage Nigeria’s reputation as a beacon of democracy in Africa. Furthermore, this action raises serious concerns about the President’s commitment to democracy and the rule of law. It is worrisome that the President would resort to such draconian measures, rather than exploring democratic solutions to the challenges facing Rivers State.

We are also concerned about the potential consequences of this action on the stability of Nigeria and the African region. The suspension of democratic institutions and the imposition of emergency rule could lead to widespread unrest, violence, and instability. In addition, this action undermines the principles of federalism and the autonomy of states in Nigeria. The President’s decision to suspend the Governor and the State House of Assembly is a clear infringement on the powers of the state government and a violation of the principle of separation of powers.

We urge you to prevail upon President Tinubu to immediately lift the State of Emergency in Rivers State and restore the democratically elected government. We request that the African Union Commission take concrete steps to ensure that Nigeria, as a member state, upholds the principles of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. We also request that the African Union Commission take the following steps:

*Condemns the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State and the suspension of the democratically elected Governor and State House of Assembly.
*Calls on President Tinubu to immediately lift the State of Emergency and restore the democratically elected government.
*Sends a fact-finding mission to Rivers State to investigate the circumstances surrounding the declaration of a state of emergency and the suspension of democratic institutions.
*Takes concrete steps to ensure that Nigeria, as a member state, upholds the principles of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.

We look forward to your prompt response and action.

Signed;
Professor Senator Opeyemi Ola
Professor  Adah George
Rt. Hon Dr James Oloko
Dr. Mrs Evelyn E. Ogolime