South-South Governors Condemn State of Emergency in Rivers State

The South-South Governors’ Forum has expressed strong reservations about the six-month state of emergency declared in Rivers State.

The Governors cited concerns that the current political situation does not meet the constitutional criteria for such a declaration.

A statement by the Chairman of the Forum, Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State, recognised the President’s duty to maintain law and order but emphasised that the situation in Rivers State does not warrant a state of emergency.

The Forum pointed out that the Nigerian Constitution outlines specific conditions for declaring a state of emergency, including war, external aggression, and breakdown of public order, which are not present in Rivers State.

The Forum noted that the Constitution provides specific procedures for removing a governor and deputy governor, as well as dissolving parliament, which may not have been followed in the current situation.

The Forum believes that the political disputes in Rivers State should be resolved through legal and constitutional means, rather than executive fiat.

The Forum further proposed the rescission of the state of emergency to reduce tensions and establish a foundation for enduring peace.

The South-South Governors’ Forum encouraged all parties to remain calm, uphold peace, and respect the Constitution.

The Forum however emphasised that the moment for dialogue was now, urging stakeholders to engage in constructive discussions to resolve the crisis .

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had on Tuesday, declared a state of Emergency in Rivers State.

The President said the declaration was in order to sustain democracy and protect lives and property of the Rivers people.

Confidence Okwuchi