The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum has strongly criticized President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, describing the move as divisive, biased, and detrimental to democracy.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the forum, led by Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, condemned what it called the President’s tacit endorsement of the role played by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, in the political crisis engulfing Rivers State. The governors accused Tinubu of enabling Wike’s actions by remaining silent while the former governor wields unchecked influence in the state.
For nearly two years, Rivers State has been entangled in a power struggle between Wike and his successor, Governor Siminalayi Fubara. The prolonged political standoff has significantly hindered governance in the oil-rich state.
On Tuesday evening, in a nationwide address, Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers, citing the need to restore order. As part of the emergency measures, he announced the suspension of Governor Fubara, his deputy, Mrs. Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for an initial period of six months. Additionally, he appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas as the new administrator of the state.
Within hours of the announcement, military personnel took control of the Rivers State Government House in Port Harcourt, a move that further escalated tensions.
In response, the PDP governors issued a strongly worded statement urging Tinubu to reverse what they described as an unconstitutional decision that threatens Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
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“The Peoples Democratic Party Governors’ Forum notes with grave concern and utter misgiving the suspension of democratic rule in Rivers State by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in his nationwide broadcast of Tuesday, 18th March, 2025,” the statement read. “We stand in solidarity with Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the people of Rivers State during this difficult and trying moment.”
The forum accused Tinubu of orchestrating a direct attack on opposition parties, warning that his actions could destabilize the country.
“This unwarranted and premeditated assault on Rivers State and the opposition parties is the greatest threat to democracy in Nigeria today,” the statement continued. “It is a dangerous course of action that will not only endanger our hard-won democracy but will also deepen national crises, increase security threats, weaken the economy, and erode national cohesion and stability.”
The PDP governors vowed to challenge the matter legally, promising to seek judicial interpretation of Section 305(3) of the Constitution, which governs the imposition of a state of emergency.
“Mr. President must listen to wise counsel and the voice of reason,” the forum urged. “He must acknowledge that he made a grievous mistake, acted in haste, and reverse this atrocious and retrograde decision before it is too late.”