PDP Governors Sue Tinubu Over Rivers Emergency Rule at Supreme Court
ABUJA — Seven governors from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have filed a lawsuit at the Supreme Court challenging President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State. The legal action, initiated on March 26, 2025, contests the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and the Rivers State House of Assembly, describing the move as unconstitutional and detrimental to Nigeria’s democracy.
The Legal Challenge
The PDP governors—representing Bauchi, Adamawa, Bayelsa, Enugu, Osun, Plateau, and Zamfara states—argue that President Tinubu exceeded his constitutional powers by suspending elected officials and appointing retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as sole administrator of Rivers State. Their lawsuit seeks judicial interpretation of Sections 1(2), 5(2), and 305 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which govern the imposition of a state of emergency.
Key demands in their suit include:
- Declaration of Unconstitutionality: The governors assert that Tinubu has no authority to suspend elected officials under the guise of emergency rule.
- Nullification of Sole Administrator Appointment: They argue that replacing a governor with an unelected administrator violates democratic principles.
- Invalidation of National Assembly Ratification: The governors claim that the voice vote used to approve Tinubu’s actions failed to meet constitutional requirements for a two-thirds majority.
Background: Rivers State Crisis
President Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State on March 18, citing political instability and security threats caused by pipeline vandalism and clashes between Governor Fubara and the legislature. The emergency measures included:
- Suspension of Governor Fubara, his deputy, and all members of the State Assembly for six months.
- Deployment of military personnel to take control of key government facilities in Port Harcourt.
Critics argue that Tinubu’s actions were politically motivated and aimed at weakening opposition strongholds.
PDP Governors’ Condemnation
The PDP Governors Forum described the emergency rule as “the greatest threat to Nigeria’s democracy.” Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, chairman of the forum, stated:
“This unwarranted assault on democratic institutions will destabilize governance, deepen mistrust, and erode national cohesion.”
The governors accused Tinubu of enabling political interference by Minister Nyesom Wike, Fubara’s predecessor, who has been embroiled in a prolonged power struggle with the current governor.
Public Reaction
The lawsuit has sparked nationwide debate:
- Legal Experts: Many legal scholars support the PDP governors’ challenge, arguing that Tinubu’s actions violate constitutional provisions.
- Civil Society Groups: Organizations like SERAP have called for transparency and accountability in handling emergency declarations.
- Rivers Residents: While some residents welcome federal intervention to address insecurity, others view it as an attack on their democratic rights.
Implications for Governance
The Supreme Court ruling on this case could set a precedent for how states of emergency are declared in Nigeria. If successful, the PDP governors’ lawsuit may limit presidential powers and strengthen democratic institutions.
Conclusion
As legal proceedings begin, the PDP governors remain resolute in their fight to reverse what they describe as an unconstitutional decision. The outcome will not only shape Rivers State’s political future but also influence Nigeria’s democratic stability.
