The South-South Governors’ Forum has called for the revocation of the state of emergency imposed on Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu.
In a statement signed by Chairman of the forum and Governor of Bayelsa State, Douye Diri, the governors expressed concern that the political situation in Rivers State does not satisfy the criteria for declaring a state of emergency as outlined in Section 305 (3) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
“This section suggests that such a declaration should be considered under specific conditions like war, external aggression, imminent invasion, breakdown of public order, existential threats to Nigeria, natural disasters, or other significant public dangers,” the governors asserted.
While the forum recognizes the president’s constitutional duty to maintain law and order throughout Nigeria, it however, said the governors are equally mandated to secure peace and stability in their respective states.
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“It is also worth noting that the constitution outlines specific procedures for the removal of a governor and deputy governor, as detailed in Section 188, and similar provisions exist for the removal of members of the House of Assembly and the dissolution of parliament.
“In the current situation, it appears that these guidelines might not have been fully considered.
“We believe that the political disputes in Rivers State between the governor and the House of Assembly should, ideally, be resolved through legal and constitutional means, rather than by executive fiat,” the governors added
The forum encouraged all parties to remain calm, uphold peace and the constitution, pointing out that the moment for dialogue is now.
