Tag: President Bola Tinubu

  • Senate receives Tinubu’s proclamation letter on state of emergency

    Senate receives Tinubu’s proclamation letter on state of emergency

    ABUJA – PRESIDENT Bola Tinubu has written the Senate a letter of proclamation on the six-month suspension he slammed on Governor Siminalaye Fubara of Rivers State.

    The letter was read at plenary by the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio.

    The Senate Immediately went into a closed-door session

    The letter read, “I compliance with the provisions of Section 305, Subsection 2 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, as amended. I hereby forward, for the Constitution of the Senate, copies of the official Gazette of the State of Emergency Proclamation 2025.

    “The main features of the proclamation are as follows:

    “A declaration of a State of Emergency in one State of the Federation, namely, River State.

    “The suspension from office of the Governor, his Deputy, and all members of the State House of Assembly.

    “An appointment of Vice-Admiral Iboete Iba, as the Administrator to administer the State something to any instruction or regulation as made from time to time be issued by me.

    “While I look forward to the expeditious Constitution of the Senate, please accept, Distinguished Senate President, the assurances of my highest consideration.”

    Akpabio after reading the letter said, “This letter is committed to the Committee of the entire Senate for Immediate passage.”

    Immediately after the letter, Senator Seriake Dickson, PDP, Bayelsa West raised a point of Order 133 that has to do with having a closed-door session over the proclamation letter.

    The day’s plenary session commenced at noon with the National Anthem and thereafter the prayer at 12.01 pm.

    The motion for the adoption of Votes and Proceedings of Wednesday was adopted by Senator Barinada Mpigi, PDP, Rivers South East and seconded by Senator Idiat Adebute, APC, Lagos West.

  • EMERGENCY: Rivers Women go spiritual, say Tinubu ill-advised

    EMERGENCY: Rivers Women go spiritual, say Tinubu ill-advised

    PORT HARCOURT: Women in Rivers State have condemned President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in the state, turning to God for intervention.

    Hundreds of women from the 23 local government areas, under the aegis of Women Unite for Sim, gathered at Isaac Boro Park in Port Harcourt for a prayer session, expressing regret that the state would be placed under a Sole Administrator.

    Speaking at the event, Mrs. Ibim Semenitari, one of the group’s leaders, said the women have been praying for peace and security in Rivers State, trusting that God would intervene.

    Semenitari said: “We have been praying for the judgment of God on all who desire evil for Rivers State, and we have been praying for peace upon all who desire it.

    “As human beings, we feel disappointed because we want our governor to govern without encumbrances. However, we also know that God reigns over the affairs of men, and nothing happens without His knowledge, notice, or permission.

    “We believe the president seeks the good of Nigeria—we would like to believe that—but it is up to him to prove us right or wrong. We hope his actions are in the best interest of Rivers State and Nigeria.

    “Our governor has urged us to remain peaceful, and we will follow his directive. Governor Siminalayi Fubara has asked his supporters to be peace-loving and to avoid any acts of violence.

    “So, if the governor has said so, we should all abide by it and continue lifting our eyes to the Lord God Almighty, Jehovah Sabaoth, believing He will act for the people of Rivers State.”

    The former Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) said President Tinubu acted on poor advice but maintained that the women would not allow their voices to be silenced.

    Semenitari added: “I believe the presidency was ill-advised in this move. I don’t think it was well thought out. But then again, the president has a broader view of the situation, and I do not.

    “Rivers people must continue to trust in God, pray, and remain peaceful and law-abiding.

    “However, we must not allow our voices to be silenced. We must speak up—peacefully—and continue urging those in power to put Rivers first.”

    Also speaking, Nollywood actress Hilda Dokubo described the crisis as a battle for the economic soul of Rivers State, calling on President Tinubu to bring Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to order.

    Dokubo said: “For the first time, we have seen that our riverine terrain is not an obstacle to development. Roads are now connecting riverine communities, and civil servants are being paid, including a 13th-month salary.

    “The economy is picking up, so why kill it again? That’s what they want to do—this is a fight for the economic soul of Rivers State. Someone wants to seize it.

    “This is not about all the drama with Siminalayi.”

  • Tinubu appoints Akin-Olugbade NISO chairman, Bello as MD

    Tinubu appoints Akin-Olugbade NISO chairman, Bello as MD

    ABUJA — PRESIDENT Bola Tinubu has appointed executive and non-executive board members for the newly established Nigerian Independent System Operator, NISO.

    A statement issued by the presidential spokesman, Bayo Onanuga explained that Dr. Adesegun Akin-Olugbade is the board chairman, while Engineer Abdu Mohammed Bello has been appointed Managing Director.

    According to the statement, the President also appointed four Executive Directors: Engineer Nafisatu Asabe Ali for Systems Operation, Engineer Shehu Abba-Aliyu for Systems Planning, Dr. Edmund Eje for Market Operations, and Mr. Babajide Ibironke for Finance and Corporate Services.

    The Non-Executive Directors include Engineer Lamu Audu, representing Generation; Mrs Folake Soetan for Distribution; Mr Tajudeen Giwa-Osagie as Market Expert; Engineer Sule Ahmed Abdulaziz for Transmission, and Alhaji Mahmuda Mamman, Permanent Secretary at the Federal Ministry of Power.

    The National Council on Privatisation, NCP, will finalise the recruitment process.

    The statement further said: “These appointments align with the Electricity Act of 2023 and followed a memorandum from Vice President Kashim Shettima and a rigorous selection process conducted by the Independent Board Nomination Committee (IBNC) in collaboration with Phillips Consulting Limited.

    “The creation of NISO fulfils a key mandate of the Electricity Act (2023), which requires the unbundling of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) into a Transmission System Provider (TSP) and an Independent System Operator (ISO).

    “The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) officially established NISO on April 30, 2024. The Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) and the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI) are its subscribers, each holding equal equity shares.”

  • Senate receives Tinubu’s letter, moves to debate on state of emergency in Rivers

    Senate receives Tinubu’s letter, moves to debate on state of emergency in Rivers

    ABUJA- THE Senate has admitted receiving Communication from President Booa Tinubu on the six-month suspension that he slammed on Governor Siminalaye Fubara of Rivers State.

    The Senate has however moved the debate on the letter to 3 pm.

    Though the motion was slated as the first matter to be discussed in today’s Order paper and when it time, the leader of the Senate, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, APC, Ekiti Central stood and cited Order 1( b) of the Senate Standing Orders 2023 as amended that the next item should be discussed instead of the letter. He was seconded by the Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro, PDP, Benue South.

    Thereafter, the second item in the Order Paper was taken.

    It is the Confirmation of the Nominations of Appointment as Members of the Police Service Commission (PSC) by the Chairman, Senate Committee on Police Affairs, Senator Abdulhamid, Mallam-Madori, APC, Jigatwa East.

    In presenting his report, he said, “That the Senate do Receive and Consider the Report of the Committee on Police Affairs on the confirmation of the nominations of the following persons for appointment as Members of the Police Service Commission (PSC).”

    Prior to the consideration of today’s plenary session on the motion which was the first in the Order Paper, plenary did not commence at 11 am as indicated in the Standing as the time for commencement of the day’s plenary session, the prayer session took place at 12.41 as soon as the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio came barely two minutes before the prayer session.

    Thereafter, there was a standstill as the session after prayer did not Continue until he commenced with approval of votes and proceedings at 1.05 pm.

    President Tinubu had on Tuesday declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for an initial period of six months.

    In a national broadcast, Tinubu cited prolonged political instability, constitutional breaches, and security threats as reasons for the extraordinary measure.

    The crisis, which had paralyzed governance in the oil-rich state, stems from a power struggle between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.

    As part of the directive, the President also appointed Vice Admiral Ibok-Étè Ibas (retd.) as the sole administrator to oversee the state’s affairs until normalcy is restored. Ibas served as Chief of Naval Staff from 2015 to 2021 under former President Muhammadu Buhari.

    Details later…

  • Tension as Tinubu declares state of emergency in Rivers

    Tension as Tinubu declares state of emergency in Rivers

    PRESIDENT Bola Tinubu, yesterday, wielded the big stick yesterday to resolve the two-year political crisis ravaging Rivers State by declaring a state of emergency.

    In a 1003-word nationwide broadcast, the President suspended the governor, Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu, and members of the State House of Assembly for six months.

    He appointed formwer Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas, retd, as administrator, and the appointment is subject to the confirmation of the National Assembly.

    Vanguard exclusively reported, yesterday, that a neutral person could be appointed to administer the state as a solution to the lingering problem.

    With the development, Rivers has become the sixth state, after Plateau, Ekiti, Borno, Yobe and Adamawa, to witness state of emergency since the return of democratic rule in 1999.

    Also, Rivers became the third state after Plateau and Ekiti to have their governors, deputies and legislators suspended during the emergency rule.

    Borno, Yobe and Adamawa states’ governors were in the saddle during the emergency rule in the three states.
    Declaring the state of emergency yesterday, Tinubu said: ‘’Fellow Nigerians, I feel greatly disturbed at the turn we have come to regarding the political crisis in Rivers State. Like many of you, I have watched with concern the development, with the hope that the parties involved would allow good sense to prevail at the soonest, but all that hope burned out without any solution to the crisis.

    ‘’With the crisis persisting, there is no way democratic governance, which we have all fought and worked for over the years, can thrive in a way that will redound to the benefit of the good people of the state.
    ‘’The state has been at a standstill since the crisis started, with the good people of the state not being able to have access to the dividends of democracy.

    ‘’Also, it is public knowledge that the governor of Rivers State for unjustifiable reasons, demolished the House of Assembly of the state as far back as December 13, 2023, and has, up until now, fourteen (14) months after, not rebuilt same.

    ‘’I have made personal interventions between the contending parties for a peaceful resolution of the crisis, but my efforts have been largely ignored by the parties to the crisis. I am also aware that many well-meaning Nigerians, leaders of thought and patriotic groups have also intervened at various times with the best of intentions to resolve the matter, but all their efforts were also to no avail. Still, I thank them.

    ‘’On February 28, 2025, the Supreme Court, in a judgment in respect of about eight consolidated appeals concerning the political crisis in Rivers State, based on several grave unconstitutional acts and disregard of rule of law that have been committed by the governor of Rivers State as shown by the evidence before it, pronounced in very clear terms:

    ‘’A government cannot be said to exist without one of the three arms that make up the government of a state under the 1999 Constitution as amended. In this case, the head of the executive arm of government has chosen to collapse the legislature to enable him govern without the legislature as a despot. As it is, there is no government in Rivers State.

    ‘’The above pronouncement came after a catalogue of judicial findings of constitutional breaches against Governor Siminalayi Fubara. Going Forward in their judgment, and having found and held that 27 members of the House who had allegedly defected are still valid members of Rivers State House of Assembly and cannot be prevented from participating in the proceedings of that House by the 8th Respondent (that is, the governor) in cohorts with four members

    ‘’The Supreme Court then made some orders to restore the state to immediate constitutional democracy. These orders include the immediate passing of an Appropriation Bill by the Rivers State House of Assembly which up till now has not been facilitated.

    ‘’Some militants had threatened fire and brimstone against their perceived enemy of the governor who has up till now NOT disowned them. Apart from that, both the House and the governor have not been able to work together.

    ‘’Both of them do not realise that they are in office to work together for the peace and good governanc

    e of the state. The latest security reports made available to me show that between yesterday and today, there have been disturbing incidents of vandalization of pipelines by some militant without the governor taking any action to curtail them.

    ‘’I have, of course, given stern orders to the security agencies to ensure safety of lives of the good people of Rivers State and the oil pipelines. With all these and many more, no good and responsible President will standby and allow the grave situation to continue without taking remedial steps prescribed by the constitution to address the situation in the state, which no doubt requires extraordinary measures to restore good governance, peace, order and security.

    ‘’In the circumstance, having soberly reflected on and evaluated the political situation in Rivers State and the governor and deputy governor of Rivers State, having failed to make a request to me as President to issue this proclamation as required by section 305(5) of the 1999 Constitution as amended, it has become inevitably compelling for me to invoke the provision of section 305 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 as amended, to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State with effect from today (yesterday) March 18, 2025 and I so do.

    ‘’By this declaration, the governor of Rivers State, Mr Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, Mrs Ngozi Odu and all elected members of the House of Assembly of Rivers State are hereby suspended for an initial period of six months.

    ‘’In the meantime, I hereby nominate Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas, retd, as administrator to take charge of the affairs of the state in the interest of the good people of Rivers State. For the avoidance of doubt, this declaration does not affect the judicial arm of Rivers State, which shall continue to function in accordance with their constitutional mandate.

    ‘’The administrator will not make any new laws. He will, however, be free to formulate regulations as may be found necessary to do his job, but such regulations will need to be considered and approved by the Federal Executive Council and promulgated by the President for the state.

    ‘’This declaration has been published in the Federal Gazette, a copy of which has been forwarded to the National Assembly in accordance with the constitution.

    ‘’It is my fervent hope that this inevitable intervention will help to restore peace and order in Rivers State by awakening all the contenders to the constitutional imperatives binding on all political players in Rivers State in particular and Nigeria as a whole.’’

    Lawyers, Atiku, George, others fault declaration

    President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State yesterday drew the ire of senior lawyers, and political stakeholders who described the development unacceptable.

    They include human rights activist, Mr Ebun Adegboruwa, SAN; Kunle Edun, SAN; Evans Ufeli; 2023 presidential candidate of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Atiku Abubakar; and former Deputy National Chairman of the PDP, Chief Olabode George.

    It’s premeditated, part of a script— Adegboruwa

    Reacting to the development yesterday, Mr Ebun Adegboruwa, SAN, said the state of emergency was uncalled for, adding that there was no basis for the President’s decision.

    His words: “It is uncalled for, there is no basis for the declaration of a state of emergency because some issues have already been resolved by the Supreme Court, while others are being looked into. Looking at the facts, the state of emergency is premeditated and part of a script.
    “In Osun State, there is crisis over local government issues and no state of emergency has been

    declared. The same thing in Benue State where there is crisis between the executive and judiciary, no state of emergency has been declared. In Lagos State, where you had two speakers, no state of emergency has been declared.
    “There is no basis for it and I urge the President to rescind his decision and allow democracy to work in Rivers State. This is not to support the governor or the minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, but the state of emergency is uncalled for.”

    Tinubu lacks power to suspend Fubara, deputy, others —Edun

    On his part, Kunle Edun, SAN, said: “The provisions of Section 305 relied upon by President Tinubu does not empower the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to remove or suspend elected state officials.
    ‘’Section 305(3) of the Constitution prescribed the grounds upon which a state of emergency can be declared and none of the reasons alluded to by the President justifies the declaration of a State of Emergency in Rivers State.

    ‘’As a matter of fact, under section 305(4) the Governor of a State supported with a resolution of 2/3 majority of the members of the House of Assembly may request the President to declare a State of Emergency on any part of the state.

    “The Supreme Court has already settled the issues causing the crisis in the state and the House of Assembly has started sitting. As a matter of fact, Governor Fubara was at the House of Assembly complex to present the 2025 budget in response to the demand of the Rivers’ State House of Assembly. ‘’So, Mr. President was very wrong to say there was no longer a functional government in Rivers State simply because the House of Assembly complex was demolished.

    “Furthermore, the Constitution has already provided remedial provisions to take care of situations where a House of Assembly is unable to perform its legislative functions. Section 11(4) of the Constitution provides that at any time a House of Assembly is unable to perform its functions by reason of situations prevailing in that state, the National Assembly may make law for the peace, order and good government of that state, with respect to matters which the House of Assembly has power to make laws until such a time the House is able to resume its functions.

    “ The proviso to section 11(4) is very apposite to understand the limitations of the power of the President. The proviso provides that the intervention of the National Assembly by virtue of its powers under section 11(4) shall not confer on the National Assembly the power to remove the governor or deputy governor of the state.

    ‘’Therefore, the Constitution is clear that there is no power conferred on any authority to remove or suspend a governor, the deputy or the House of Assembly of a state during a period of state of emergency. As a matter of fact and clear law, the President violated his oath of allegiance to protect, defend and abide by the provisions of the constitution.

    “A State House of Assembly cannot be suspended by the President. Rather, it is the National Assembly that has the constitutional power to take over the legislative functions of a state. Therefore, the Constitution did not envisage a situation where a state will be without a legislature at any time.”

    It’s a bold step but Wike should be removed —Enikuomehin

    However, another legal practitioner, Dr Benson Enikuomehin, commended President Tinubu for the move, which he described as a bold step.

    Enikuomehin, however, urged the president not to spare the FCT Minister, Mr Nyesom Wike for allegedly sponsoring the crisis in the State.

    He said: “I commend Mr. President for taking the bold step in declaring a State of Emergency in Rivers State owing to the palpable tension looming in the State.

    “While the governor, deputy governor and the House of Assembly have been suspended for six months, I am of the strong view that the man in the engine room, promoting and sponsoring the crisis in the state, Mr. Nyesom Wike, should not be spared in the ignoble roles he has played in the Rivers crisis. Let him be relieved of his post as a minister.

    ‘’This is what will bring all the parties to their knees and a reasonable man will feel that justice has been served.”

    Suspending Rivers Assembly, an overreach—Ufeli

    Another lawyer, Evans Ufeli, said: “The political tension and crisis in Rivers State has reached a state of ‘clear and present danger’ which represents the ground under which a state of emergency must be declared.

    ‘’By this term of reference, President Tinubu has rightly declared a state of emergency in Rivers State. The action is, however, not completed; the President has published the same in the National Gazette and transmitted it to the National Assembly, in compliance with section 305 of the 1999 constitution as amended.

    ‘’The National Assembly must within two days act on same by giving its concurrence to it before the process can become valid in the eyes of the law.

    “A State of Emergency is more like an equitable remedy targeted at restoring peace to a country or any part thereof in the face of a clear and present danger. The purpose of this is both preventive and curative, largely for the continuous peaceful habitation of a nation, to restore peace and tranquility in times of chaos, and to promote regular and peaceful co-existence of all states and nations of Nigeria. The President suspended the State House of Assembly together with the governor and that is controversial because the same can be challenged. I am not a fan of Rivers State House of Assembly but there’s an overreach there. Can the President suspend the State House of Assembly?”

    It’s uncald for —Bode George

    Also reacting last night, Chief Bode George faulted the President’s declaration, urging him to rescind it.
    George said: “I am shocked, this has never happened in this country and there is a procedure where the Supreme Court has made a pronouncement on how a state of emergency can be declared. This is armageddon and I urge the President to rescind his decision because this is totally uncalled for.

    “This is absolute armageddon. Total disrespect for constituted authority. The Constitution has been viciously violated. We can’t keep quiet. This is recklessness of the highest order. What did Fubara do? As the Commander-in-Chief, you gave Wike soldiers and security agents to try to destabilise Rivers State.
    ‘’The governor does not have powers over any security agency. Like a gentleman that he is, he kept his cool. Nobody has told me what the governor did to warrant this dictatorial emergency rule.

    “What type of democracy is this in 2025? This is how it started in 1962 and 1983. This is a dress rehearsal of what Tinubu wants to do in 2027. APC wants to get all states through unconstitutional means.
    “This state of emergency is absolute balderdash. Did he get the approval of the National Assembly before his broadcast? What happened in Rivers before today was the hand of Esau and the voice of Jacob.

    “Why didn’t he declare a state of emergency in Lagos when the lawmakers were fighting? Why? Why did he invite Diete-Spiff and Niger Delta leaders last week when he knew where he was going? Is Tinubu now becoming a civilian dictator?”

    It’s political, in bad faith — Atiku

    In like manner, Atiku Abubakar described the declaration as political manipulation done in outright bad faith.

    Atiku, who stated this in a post on his Facebook page yesterday, said: “Anyone paying attention to the unfolding crisis knows that Bola Tinubu has been a vested partisan actor in the political turmoil engulfing Rivers. His blatant refusal — or calculated negligence — in preventing this escalation is nothing short of disgraceful.

    “Beyond the political scheming in Rivers, the brazen security breaches that led to the condemnable destruction of national infrastructure in the state land squarely on the President’s desk.
    “Tinubu cannot evade responsibility for the chaos his administration has either enabled or failed to prevent.

    “It is an unforgivable failure that under Tinubu’s watch, the Niger-Delta has been thrown back into an era of violent unrest and instability — undoing the hard-won peace secured by the late President Umaru Yar’Adua. Years of progress have been recklessly erased in pursuit of selfish political calculations.
    “If federal infrastructure in Rivers has been compromised, the President bears full responsibility. Punishing the people of Rivers State just to serve the political gamesmanship between the governor and Tinubu’s enablers in the federal government is nothing less than an assault on democracy and must be condemned in the strongest terms.”

  • Rivers: Military on high alert — Defence minister backs Tinubu’s state of emergency declaration

    Rivers: Military on high alert — Defence minister backs Tinubu’s state of emergency declaration

    Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has expressed his strong support for President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, emphasising that this decisive action is vital for restoring stability to the state’s turbulent political landscape.

    Matawalle stated that the declaration is a necessary measure to address the ongoing political crisis, which has hindered the delivery of democratic governance and the welfare of the people of Rivers State.

    He called on all political actors involved in the crisis to adhere to the President’s declaration and work collaboratively towards a peaceful resolution.

    A statement by the Minister’s office said, “In light of the current situation, the Nigerian Military is on high alert to safeguard government infrastructure and ensure the security of the citizens”.

    He “warned that any attempts to attack government facilities or disrupt public order will be met with a resolute response from security forces”.

    Reflecting on the President’s address regarding the state of emergency, he acknowledged the gravity of the political crisis in Rivers State and the urgent need for intervention.

    He highlighted the unfortunate demolition of the House of Assembly by the state governor, which has left the state without a functioning legislature for over fourteen months.

    This action has contributed to the ongoing political impasse and the inability of the government to effectively serve the people.

    The Minister also noted the Supreme Court’s recent ruling, which reaffirmed the constitutional necessity of a functioning legislature and condemned the governor’s actions as unconstitutional.

    He emphasized that the court’s findings call for immediate restoration of democratic governance in the state.

    Matawalle further expressed concern over recent reports of vandalism and threats from militants, underscoring the need for a unified effort to restore peace and security.

    He reiterated that the Federal Government is committed to ensuring the safety of all citizens and the protection of vital infrastructure in Rivers State.

    In addition, the Minister of State reaffirmed the commitment of the Ministry of Defence and the Nigerian Armed Forces to upholding national security and ensuring that Rivers State returns to peace, stability and democratic governance.

    The Minister urged all stakeholders to embrace this opportunity for renewed governance and cooperation and expressed hope that the state of emergency will pave the way for a peaceful and democratic Rivers State, benefitting all its residents.

  • Rivers: NBA blasts Tinubu, condemns suspension of Fubara, calls it unconstitutional

    Rivers: NBA blasts Tinubu, condemns suspension of Fubara, calls it unconstitutional

    The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has strongly opposed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State and his suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly.

    The NBA, in a statement released on March 18, 2025, by its president, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, emphasized that the President lacks constitutional power to unilaterally remove elected officials under the guise of emergency rule.

    President Tinubu, in his national address, cited rising political tensions and recent acts of pipeline vandalism as justification for the emergency declaration.

    However, the NBA argues that such actions, while concerning, do not meet the constitutional threshold for suspending an elected government.

    The NBA pointed to Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, which governs the procedure for declaring a state of emergency. While this section grants the President emergency powers, it does not allow for the removal or suspension of elected officials. The NBA stressed that the only constitutional method for removing a governor or deputy governor is through impeachment as outlined in Section 188.

    Furthermore, the removal of lawmakers must adhere to electoral laws and constitutional provisions. The NBA insisted that a state of emergency does not equate to an automatic dissolution of an elected government, and any attempt to do so is an overreach of executive power.

    The NBA also highlighted that Tinubu’s emergency declaration requires approval from the National Assembly within two days if in session, or ten days if not. Until such approval is granted, the declaration remains legally ineffective.

    Condemning the move as a “dangerous affront” to democracy, the NBA warned that allowing the suspension of elected officials under emergency rule could set a precedent for removing state governments based on political considerations. It urged the National Assembly to reject any attempt to ratify the unconstitutional suspension of Rivers State officials.

    The NBA called on all stakeholders, including the judiciary, civil society, and international observers, to monitor the situation closely. It reaffirmed its commitment to upholding Nigeria’s democracy and urged the federal government to resolve political conflicts through constitutional and legal mechanisms, not executive orders.

    The association concluded by insisting that Nigeria’s democracy must be protected at all costs, warning that any unconstitutional interference in state governance threatens the nation’s democratic stability.

  • Rivers’ Crisis: Tinubu’s ‘Rule of Law’ plea ignites fury

    Rivers’ Crisis: Tinubu’s ‘Rule of Law’ plea ignites fury

    This week, President Bola Tinubu addressed the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) at the State House, touting the rule of law as his fix for the Rivers State crisis between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike. His plea comes as Nigeria’s judiciary stumbles—plagued by corruption, conflicting rulings, and political influence—raising doubts about the courts the government champions.

    Voices from Abuja and beyond weighed in, blending hope with skepticism.

    However, President Tinubu stood firm: “I am here by the grace of God, appreciating your support, prayers, and concern. I cannot complain. I campaigned for this position and begged for the job. I must do it with all my heart, whatever it takes.

    “I will make sure we achieve our promises and goals. Nigeria is a great country. To some cabinet members here, from outside looking in and inside looking out, we have been doing our best to give Nigeria a re-bounce, a reset, and a recalibration of the economic fortune.

    “Yes, Niger Delta is the goose that lays the golden egg. We must care for the goose; otherwise, we lose the golden egg.

    “I got your signal and your concern, particularly on Rivers State. I have been on the issue for quite some time. I foresaw the crisis festering for too long before I intervened. We reached an agreement, a written agreement, and both parties signed.

    “It is sad we find ourselves in this situation today. This is a nation with a rule of law. I should not be the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria if there is no rule of law.

    “I have total confidence in our judiciary. Now, the Supreme Court has spoken—that is it.”

    He referenced a signed agreement to end the crisis, blaming conflicting court rulings and ‘misleading advice’ to Fubara for its collapse, urging PANDEF to counsel the governor for peace.

    The President continued, “Please go back home and help implement the court rulings within the shortest possible time. I am putting the ball in your court. Help! Privately and openly intervene and counsel the governor. Pursue the path of peace and stability.

    “Go back home and take charge of peace. If you need me, let me know. I have given the situation enough time and enough consideration. We cannot fall back, and we will not. The people of Rivers State will not suffer because of democracy. We worked together on it. They will not suffer. They must be protected.

    “We cannot achieve Eldorado in one day. But we are on the path to it. We will succeed by the grace of God Almighty. We are resetting the economy, and it looks far better. We have funds for our children in college. Our medical colleges are also getting equipped.

    “The ongoing coastal road project will create new economic benefits for the Niger Delta and the country. We are already working with international companies to build ports in the Niger Delta States.

    “I have seen what you have tolerated in the region. Community development is very close to my heart. The leader of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, is doing a great job and should be encouraged to do more. He is your son. We are all proud of him.

    “Yes, there are lots of misadventurers around Nigeria on democracy. We will continue to work on preserving the integrity and character of our legislators. I sincerely thank you for bringing up those issues.”

    However. here are what Nigerians are saying in separate responses:

    Agreement was a death warrant – Rufai Oseni

    Oseni branded Tinubu’s mediation a sham, exposing judicial flaws that fuel skepticism. He blasted: “”I disagree with President Tinubu. The so-called agreement that President Tinubu suggested Fubara should sign was effectively a death warrant. It is the same death warrant they are attempting to execute now. Initially, the main point of contention was impeachment. Then, the lawmakers defected in order to prepare everything. That agreement was not a safeguard against impeachment; rather, it was to ‘cede all powers to the lawmakers’, who would then return to undermine Fubara. Many people opposed this agreement, believing it would ultimately harm him.

    “Furthermore, the circumstances under which he signed were perceived by many as coercive; it was not a viable solution. We then endured the lengthy process of the courts, with numerous cases still pending in relation to the federal high court’s determination regarding the lawmakers’ fate. I have also thoroughly reviewed the Supreme Court judgment. While we must respect the rule of law, we must also acknowledge the heavy-handedness of these lawmakers. The governor wrote a letter, but they rebuffed him. The APC is in turmoil, with Tony Okocha issuing a statement urging them to proceed with impeachment. Meanwhile, Emeka Beke, another factional APC chairman in Rivers State, advised against listening to Okocha.

    “There are no guarantees that these lawmakers, once they assert their authority, will refrain from targeting Fubara. This is fundamentally a power struggle, and we know their affiliations. This is why the people are outraged; the Niger Delta community is voicing their concerns. Ankio Briggs visited recently, and the situation is reminiscent of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. It’s not that Ukraine does not want peace, but we are asking: where are the assurances? Where are the ironclad guarantees that Russia will not invade again? They have placed the ball in Russia’s court, and we will see how they respond. This is the same Russia that violated the Minsk agreement, just as the current situation in Rivers mirrors past betrayals. Once these lawmakers consolidate their power, they will undoubtedly target Fubara, and this has always been the concern, even among the elders in Rivers.”

    Tinubu Focused Only on Fubara –
    Reuben Abati, Journalist

    Abati praised Tinubu’s legal stance but flags judicial bias as a reform snag. He said, “President Tinubu met with leaders from the Niger Delta region while breaking his fast, alongside governors, military chiefs, political leaders, and representatives from the Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF). During this meeting, he made several statements regarding River State that I would like to examine.

    “First, he spoke about the importance of adherence to the rule of law. We cannot fault him on that; respecting the rule of law is essential. He emphasised that the decisions made by the courts, particularly the Supreme Court, should be upheld, asserting the sanctity of the rule of law. In this context, we hope that President Tinubu’s gesture signifies his administration’s commitment to the rule of law.

    “What does the rule of law entail in this case? The Supreme Court has ruled on the River State matter, stating that the local government elections conducted by Governor Fubara on 20 March 2024 were invalid, as was the budget presentation made to a former member of the River State House of Assembly, led by Honourable Jombo.

    Furthermore, the Supreme Court ruled that the 27-member Pro-Wike faction of the River State House of Assembly has not lost their seats. Governor Fubara had previously indicated his intention to abide by the Supreme Court’s decision and reiterated this point yesterday, emphasising that it is in the interest of peace in the state.

    “However, the president advised him to be humble and to ‘stoop to conquer’. This phrase is particularly instructive; as a former literature lecturer, I recall teaching a course titled ‘Shakespeare and His Contemporaries’. The phrase ‘stoop to conquer’ originates from Oliver Goldsmith, during the reign of King George III, suggesting that one can achieve victory by adopting a humble approach. While this is a well-known literary notion, my concern is that President Tinubu seems to have focused solely on Fubara. What about his own minister, Wike, who is reported to be a principal source of the crisis in River State? From what I’ve read, the president did not address the role of his minister, Nyesom Wike, although Chief Ankio-Briggs raised this issue, urging the president to question Minister Wike, asserting that a former governor should not be controlling affairs in River State—a significant concern.

    “At that same occasion, members of the Rivers Elders Forum, led by Chief Rufus Ada-George, a former governor of the state, expressed the need for all parties to set aside their differences in the interest of Rivers State, a sentiment I also support. However, there are factions that do not wish for peace. One group, led by Tony Okocha, who describes himself as the APC’s state chairman, and another called the Sim Worldwide Group or whatever they call themselves, warned that any attempt to impeach Fubara would lead to chaos in the state. This should be the focus of our discussion: who are these individuals intent on causing chaos? Who insists that Fubara must be impeached, even after he has submitted to the will of the political elite? Godfatherism remains a major challenge in Nigerian politics, and it appears that Minister Wike has had his way, with anti-Fubara forces succeeding, and President Tinubu supporting that coalition.

    “The critical question is whether we all desire peace and stability in River State. The people who have suffered the most are the citizens of River State. Without federal government allocations, there has been little development, despite Fubara’s efforts to inaugurate various initiatives. For how long can he sustain this? This is the crux of the issue in River State, and I hope that reason will prevail in the end.”

    It’s Time for Action Now – Mike Ozekhome, SAN

    Ozekhome backed Tinubu’s judicial trust but presses for reform to ensure compliance. He said, “Tinubu’s call for rule of law in Rivers is timely. The judiciary has spoken; now it’s time for action to ensure all parties respect the Supreme Court’s verdict.

    “The President’s revelation of a signed agreement shows his effort, but peace hinges on compliance, not just words.”

    Conflicting Orders Undermine Tinubu – Chukwudi Okeke, Legal Analyst

    Okeke tied judicial chaos to reform delays, undercutting Tinubu’s plan.

    “Tinubu’s faith in the judiciary is commendable, but conflicting court orders in Rivers show the system’s flaws. He must go beyond words and ensure the Supreme Court’s ruling isn’t mocked,” Okeke argued.

    Lip Service Won’t Work – Kunle Olusegun Adebiyi, Barrister

    Adebiyi slammed judicial enforcement gaps as a reform hurdle. “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s rule of law talk is good, but Amaewhule’s faction barring Fubara from the Assembly hours after shows it’s lip service unless enforced,” he snapped.

    Wike Must Be Called Out – Annkio Briggs, Activist

    Briggs linked Wike’s defiance to a judiciary needing an overhaul. She fumed, “The President’s mediation failed before because Wike didn’t honor it. Telling PANDEF to counsel Fubara alone is one-sided and won’t solve anything. Tinubu knows Rivers is the heartbeat of Nigeria’s economy; he should stop playing neutral and call Wike to order.”

    Rivers Needs Direct Action – Blessing Akinlosotu, Executive Director, National Civil Society Council of Nigeria (NCSCN)

    Akinlosotu urged Tinubu to fix judicial rot for Rivers’ peace. “We welcome Tinubu’s focus on peace and the judiciary, but delegating to PANDEF isn’t enough. Rivers needs his direct hand to stop this madness,” Akinlosotu insisted.

    Enforcement Is Missing Link – Tamuno George Sokari, Spokesperson, Niger Delta People’s Advocacy Group

    Sokari saw judicial weakness as a reform stumbling block. “Tinubu’s ‘rule of law’ talk is hollow when Amaewhule’s faction blocks Fubara from the Assembly. Where’s the enforcement? Rivers is bleeding!” Sokari shouted.

    Wike’s Defiance Undermines Trust – Fatima Mohammed, Civil Rights Advocate

    Mohammed blamed judicial capture for doubts in Tinubu’s approach.“Tinubu mediated before, and it failed. Why should we trust this ‘go counsel Fubara’ line when Wike’s camp keeps defying him?” she demanded.

    Peace Needs More Than Words – Archbishop Israel Usoro, Chairman of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) South-South Zone

    Usoro sought a stronger judiciary to bolster Tinubu’s peace plea. “We commend President Tinubu for urging peace and upholding the judiciary, but we urge him to match his words with action. Rivers’ people deserve peace, not platitudes,” he said.

    Wike Mocks Godly Law – Samuel Chijindu Obi, Pastor

    Obi tied judicial reform to upholding divine justice.

    “Tinubu’s call for law is godly, but Wike’s camp mocks it by barring Fubara. Clergy must pray and speak louder for justice,” Obi preached.

    Peace Requires Real Strength – John Ogunleye, Reverend

    Ogunleye demanded judicial strength for true peace.

    “Blessed are the peacemakers, says the Bible. Tinubu’s effort is good, but peace won’t come until he stops the Assembly’s lawlessness,” Ogunleye intoned.

    Tinubu’s Diplomacy Lacks True Grit – Aminu Yusuf Bello, Social Critic

    Bello faulted judicial frailty for weakening Tinubu’s diplomacy. “Diplomacy without action is weakness. Rivers needs a leader, not a referee,” Bello asserted.

    Stability Hangs in Balance – Chinedu Ezidiegwu, Social Commentator

    Meanwhile, Ezidiegwu sidestepped judicial woes, lauding Tinubu’s tact. “President Tinubu’s diplomacy is spot on. He’s trying to keep Rivers stable without picking sides,” Okonkwo countered.

    In Abuja, YouTuber Tunde Adeyemi, 27, chimed in: “My viewers crave peace, not promises. Tinubu says ‘rule of law,’ but Wike’s crew still blocks Fubara—where’s the balance?” he asked, filming his latest take near the Federal Secretariat Complex.

    Judicial reform in Nigeria staggers under heavy burdens: corruption scandals, and a 200,000-case backlog, per a 2023 Nigerian Bar Association report. Rivers’ clashing rulings — federal courts versus the Supreme Court — expose a system where power often trumps principle.

    Tinubu’s promise, ‘The people of Rivers State will not suffer because of democracy,’ wanes when Wike’s allies act unchecked. The President’s imagery—’Yes, Niger Delta is the goose that lays the golden egg’—falters if the judiciary, its guardian, remains a fractured shell. For now, Rivers waits, and Nigeria’s rule of law yearns for a reformer’s resolve.

  • Tinubu not worried about 2027 polls – Presidency

    Tinubu not worried about 2027 polls – Presidency

    The Presidency has clarified that President Bola Tinubu is not currently focused on the 2027 election but is instead prioritising his economic policies aimed at improving the lives of Nigerians.

    Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Media and Public Communications, Sunday Dare, stated that the president is more concerned with the long-term impact of his policies than with political maneuvering ahead of the next election.

    In a Friday night post on his X page, Dare highlighted key economic improvements under Tinubu’s leadership.

    “President Tinubu is not worried about the next election. He’s worried about the shared prosperity that he can bring to Nigerians,” he wrote.

    “He’s worried about how the reforms he has put in place will yield necessary impact. He is concerned about what happens to the economy of this country eventually. That’s the focus.

    “We’ve seen our foreign reserves go up. We’ve seen inflation come down. We’ve seen our trade surplus go up. We’ve seen exports go up and imports drop. We’ve seen the investments that have been attracted -over 50 billion. We are seeing prices dropping.

    “We have clear data and you have a President that is clearly in the driver’s seat, and he has stayed the course of the decisions he has taken. And I think that the next election is not really in his view right now. It’s how to make sure that at the end of his first term, he can sit back and say, look, ‘I have impacted the lives of Nigerians. I have turned this economy around.’”

    Dare’s statement comes amid growing political developments, including efforts to form a coalition that could challenge Tinubu in 2027.

    Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, a founding member of the governing party, All Progressives Congress (APC), has since departed from the APC to the Social Democratic Party (SDP) after allegedly falling out of favour with Tinubu.

  • Nigeria spends $817.4m to service debt in 2 months

    Nigeria spends $817.4m to service debt in 2 months

    Nigeria spent $817.4m, approximately N1.26 trillion, to service its debt in the first two months of 2025. This represents a 3.12 percent decline when compared to $843.73 million spent in the corresponding period of 2024.

    Data from the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, International Payments Report shows that in January 2025, the government spent $540.7 million and in February 2025 it spent $276.7 million on debt servicing.

    Further breakdown shows that the country had spent $3.81 billion (about N5.9 trillion) for debt service/Payments in 2024.

    Recall that the Federal Government unveiled its largest national budget in 65 years, with a record-breaking N54.99 trillion proposed spending, representing a 56.89 percent increase from the N35.05 trillion budgeted in 2024 (including a supplementary N6.2 trillion).

    President Bola Tinubu described it as the “Budget of Restoration,” aimed at stabilising the economy and driving growth.

    In the budget debt servicing is allocated N16.3 trillion, a 95 percent increase from N8.25 trillion budgeted in 2024.

    Meanwhile, data showed that Nigeria’s foreign trade in Letters of Credit, LC, payments fell by 0.55 percent Year-on-Year (YoY) to $160 million in the first two months of this year from $160.9 million in the corresponding period of last year.

    LC payments is one of the critical measure of a country’s credit worthiness but a decline or increase could also reflect developments in volume of import trades.

    LC payments for 2024 stood at $801.06 million, representing a 39 percent YoY decline from $1.32billion in 2023.