ABUJA, Nigeria – The Northern Elders Forum, NEF, has called on President Bola Tinubu to reverse the state of emergency declared in Rivers State, describing the move as unnecessary and potentially driven by personal vendettas.
In a statement issued on Friday, March 21, 2025, by its spokesperson, Abubakar Jika Jiddere, the forum argued that the political crisis in Rivers State does not meet the constitutional threshold for such a proclamation.
While acknowledging that Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution empowers the president to declare a state of emergency, the NEF contended that the situation in Rivers State does not justify the measure.
“Except perhaps for personal vendetta in alliance with the President’s serving Federal Minister of the FCT and the immediate past Governor of Rivers State, who has been in personal conflict with the suspended Governor for selfish interests rather than public good,” the statement read.
The forum emphasised that the maintenance of peace, public order, and the corporate existence of Nigeria should be the primary concern of all leaders.
“Any form of disturbance in any part of the country will have serious negative tendencies and impact on the whole country,” the statement added.
The NEF urged the federal government to find a lasting solution to the political crisis in Rivers State and immediately lift the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and the State Assembly.
“The Federal Government and the President in particular must find a viable and permanent solution to the political crisis in Rivers State, and also immediately lift the suspension of the Governor, Deputy Governor, and State Assembly to restore the spirit of democracy, justice, and public order,” the statement said.
The forum also warned against the escalation of political disputes in other parts of the country, such as Kano, where tensions have risen over the state’s traditional institution.
It advised the president to resolve political conflicts through dialogue and legal mechanisms, including negotiation, mediation, conciliation, arbitration, and adjudication.
“The naked and brutal abuse of political power can only pose imminent danger to the democratic processes in Nigeria, which is currently facing serious numerous challenges,” the NEF cautioned.
On Tuesday, President Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, citing the protracted political crisis as a threat to public order and national security.
He appointed retired Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as the sole administrator of the state.
The decision was ratified by the National Assembly on Thursday through voice votes, despite opposition from some lawmakers.
The NEF’s intervention highlights growing concerns over the use of emergency powers to address political disputes, with critics arguing that such measures undermine democratic institutions and processes.
