By Tambaya Julius, Abuja
Yiaga Africa has openly criticised the recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu. This decision, which includes the suspension of the democratically elected Governor, Deputy Governor, and State House of Assembly members, is seen as a direct attack on Nigeria’s constitutional democracy.
The organisation warns that such an overreach undermines the rule of law and sets a troubling precedent for governance in the country.
While Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution (as amended) grants the President power to declare a state of emergency under certain conditions, Yiaga Africa argues that these powers must be used sparingly and in full compliance with constitutional provisions. The current situation in Rivers State does not meet the legal requirements for emergency rule, making this suspension not only excessive but also illegal, the organization stated.
Yiaga Africa further asserts that the suspension of Rivers State’s elected officials lacks any constitutional backing. The Nigerian Constitution does not grant the President the authority to unilaterally remove democratically elected leaders under the pretext of emergency powers.
The appointment of a Sole Administrator to govern the state further raises concerns, as such a position is not recognised in Nigeria’s legal framework.
For such move signals a growing trend of authoritarian governance, where democratic structures are bypassed in favour of executive control. By sidelining elected officials without due process, the Federal Government risks eroding public trust in democratic institutions.
Additionally, Yiaga Africa points out that the decision appears politically motivated rather than being a genuine response to a crisis. Instead of addressing underlying political tensions through dialogue, the government has chosen to wield emergency powers in a manner that could destabilise the state further.
Yiaga Africa demands an immediate reversal of the emergency declaration and the reinstatement of Rivers State’s Governor, Deputy Governor, and legislature.
The organisation also urges the National Assembly to withhold its legislative approval for the declaration, as stipulated in Section 305(6)(b) of the Constitution. By refusing to endorse this move, lawmakers can prevent further democratic backsliding.
Beyond legal measures, Yiaga Africa encourages all political stakeholders to prioritise peace and constructive dialogue. The crisis in Rivers State should be resolved through diplomatic engagement rather than unconstitutional actions that threaten Nigeria’s democratic stability.
Nigeria has long played a leadership role in promoting democracy within the ECOWAS region. However, actions like this could damage the country’s credibility and weaken its influence in advocating for democratic governance across West Africa.
Yiaga Africa warns that such moves undermine the principles of constitutionalism, weaken the separation of powers, and foster authoritarian tendencies.
As a pro-democracy organisation, we will remains steadfast to our mission to safeguard constitutional governance. The organisation pledges to continue monitoring the situation in Rivers State and holding the government accountable for any actions that undermine Nigeria’s democratic framework.
Yiaga Africa calls on citizens, civil society groups, and international partners to stand together in defending democratic principles. The rule of law and fundamental freedoms must be upheld, even in the face of growing threats to democratic stability.
