Protests Erupt in Rivers State Following Emergency Rule Declaration
The Senior Special Adviser on Media to the Rivers State Sole Administrator, Hector Igbikiowubo, has indicated that the gazette instituting an emergency rule in Rivers State has bestowed extensive powers upon the sole administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.). Igbikiowubo cautioned supporters of the suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara to remain calm amidst ongoing demonstrations against Ibas’s administration.
In remarks made to reporters on Tuesday, Igbikiowubo characterized the persistent protests from Fubara’s supporters as a measure of Ibas’s resilience. Notably, he pointed out that, despite the substantial powers granted by the emergency decree, the administrator has opted for restraint rather than exerting authority.
The emergency rule, declared by President Bola Tinubu on March 18, resulted in the suspension of Governor Fubara, his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu, and the state legislature for a duration of six months. In the wake of this declaration, Ibas was appointed to manage the state’s affairs. However, the emergence of the emergency rule has sparked significant controversy, leading to numerous pro-Fubara protests in the state capital, Port Harcourt.
Igbikiowubo remarked, “The fact that people are able to protest indicates the level of tolerance shown by the administrator. The gazette is clear about granting sweeping powers to him. Fortunately for Rivers residents, the administrator has chosen to exercise restraint.” He continued, stating that the ongoing protests are effectively testing Ibas’s will and urged the residents to maintain composure during this turbulent time.
“Restoring democratic institutions cannot occur through protests, intimidation, or harassment against the administrator. Such actions are unnecessary,” he concluded.
When questioned about whether the sole administrator was addressing the demonstrators’ concerns, Igbikiowubo confirmed that Ibas has been proactive in peacebuilding efforts, including meetings with various stakeholder groups in the state. “Today (Tuesday), the administrator convened with the leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the state. They engaged in extensive discussions, with CAN providing recommendations on the next steps. This initiative reflects Ibas’s dedication to restoring democracy in Rivers State,” he stated.
Inquiries regarding the administrator’s response to an invitation from the House of Representatives were met with ambiguity from Igbikiowubo, who replied, “No, we don’t have a date yet.”
Calls for Investigation and Reversal of Emergency Rule
In related developments, a coalition of concerned citizens from Rivers State has demanded an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the emergency declaration by President Tinubu. The group criticized the decision as unconstitutional and a significant abuse of executive authority.
In a strongly worded open letter addressed to President Tinubu and circulated to the National Assembly and international organizations, the coalition called for the immediate reversal of the emergency measures and the reinstatement of Governor Fubara, Deputy Governor Odu, and all suspended members of the state legislature. This letter was signed by notable individuals, including Donu Kogbara and Aleruchi Cookey-Gam, among 19 others.
The signatories accused the President of disregarding constitutional provisions, particularly Section 305(3) of the 1999 Constitution, which outlines explicit criteria for declaring a state of emergency, including scenarios such as war, external aggression, natural disasters, or severe disruption of public order beyond the control of regular law enforcement.
The letter articulated profound dissatisfaction: “Dear President Tinubu, we, the people of Rivers State and concerned citizens of Nigeria, vehemently express our outrage over your recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State and the subsequent suspension of our democratically elected leaders. This act showcases a blatant disregard for the constitutional rights of the people and is a significant abuse of power.”
The coalition further described President Tinubu’s actions as an intentional subversion of the electorate’s will and a consolidation of federal power. They urged respect for Rivers State’s quasi-autonomy and advocated for a free democratic process unimpeded by outside interference. “The people of Rivers State deserve the right to self-determination and the ability to choose their leaders without external influence,” the group insisted.
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