President Bola Tinubu declared an emergency in Rivers state, suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara and state lawmakers amidst a political crisis and pipeline vandalism issues. The Nigerian Bar Association condemned the suspensions as illegal. Retired Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas will serve as the new military administrator. This emergency rule is the first in over a decade, raising concerns about constitutional powers.
On Tuesday, Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers state, suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara and various state lawmakers due to ongoing political instability and vandalism to vital oil pipelines. This dramatic move comes amidst months of conflict between Fubara and lawmakers, with calls for impeachment over alleged budget improprieties and legal issues surrounding the legislative assembly’s composition.
President Tinubu announced the suspension would last for six months, citing the governor’s failure to address recent pipeline vandalism incidents, including a recent explosion on the Trans Niger Pipeline. In his state address, he emphasized the need for decisive action to alleviate the grave situation in the region.
Following the announcement, retired Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas was appointed as the new military administrator for Rivers state, ensuring the continuity of judicial operations during this period. Military trucks were deployed to secure the area promptly after the suspensions were made public.
The Nigerian Constitution permits the imposition of emergency rule under specific conditions meant to restore order. Tinubu’s declaration marks the first instance of such a measure in over a decade, recalling the last emergency declared in 2013 by former President Goodluck Jonathan, which did not result in the suspension of governors.
However, the Nigerian Bar Association has criticized the legality of these suspensions, asserting that declaring an emergency does not grant the authority to dissolve or suspend elected government officials. The association’s president, Afam Osigwe, reiterated this legal stance in response to the recent developments.
The declaration of emergency in Rivers state by President Tinubu highlights significant political unrest and security challenges, particularly regarding pipeline vandalism. The decision, which involves the suspension of the state’s governor and lawmakers, has drawn legal criticism and sparks discussions on the balance of emergency powers and democratic governance in Nigeria. Given this move’s historical context, it remains a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s ongoing struggle with political stability and order.
Original Source: www.wral.com
