Makinde Condemns Rivers State Emergency Rule: Calls It a “Dangerous Precedent”
IBADAN — Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has strongly criticized President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, describing it as unconstitutional and a dangerous precedent for Nigeria’s democracy. Makinde made his remarks during an address to reporters on Friday, March 21, 2025, joining a growing chorus of opposition voices against the controversial decision.
Makinde’s Criticism: “A Threat to Federalism”
Governor Makinde expressed concern over the suspension of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and the entire state legislature for six months. He argued that the move undermines Nigeria’s federal structure and violates the principles of democracy enshrined in the 1999 Constitution.
“The declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State is an overreach by the federal government. It is not only unconstitutional but also sets a dangerous precedent for removing elected officials without due process,” Makinde stated.
He further questioned whether the political situation in Rivers met the constitutional threshold for emergency rule, emphasizing that such actions could erode public trust in governance.
Broader Opposition to Tinubu’s Declaration
Makinde’s condemnation aligns with criticisms from other stakeholders, including:
- The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA): The NBA has described the suspension of elected officials as unconstitutional, arguing that Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution does not grant the President powers to remove governors or lawmakers under emergency rule14.
- Southern and Middle Belt Leaders Forum (SMBLF): The SMBLF labeled Tinubu’s action as dictatorial and warned that it undermines Nigeria’s federalism2.
- Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF): PANDEF accused Tinubu of using emergency powers selectively, leaving out former Rivers Governor Nyesom Wike despite his alleged role in escalating tensions1.
Tinubu’s Justification and Government Defense
President Tinubu defended his decision as necessary to prevent a total breakdown of law and order in Rivers State. Attorney-General Lateef Fagbemi stated that mediation efforts between warring factions had failed, leaving no choice but to impose emergency rule13.
“This was not a decision taken lightly. It was necessary to restore peace and protect critical national assets,” Fagbemi said.
Implications for Nigeria’s Democracy
- Erosion of Federalism: Critics argue that the federal government’s intervention undermines state autonomy.
- Legal Challenges: The NBA and other groups have vowed to challenge the emergency rule in court.
- Political Fallout: The move has deepened divisions between opposition parties and the ruling APC.
Conclusion
Governor Makinde’s condemnation adds weight to growing opposition against Tinubu’s declaration of emergency rule in Rivers State. As debates continue over its legality and implications for Nigeria’s democracy, all eyes are on how this controversy will unfold in the coming months.
