Coalition of Civil Society Organizations under the auspices of Centre for Credible Leadership and Citizens Awareness, committed to advocating for good governance and credible leadership, has expressed its support for the recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Speaking at a press briefing on Friday in Abuja, Dr. Nwambu Gabriel said this decision, guided by the provisions of Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, reflects a sober and constitutional response to a pressing political situation that demands immediate intervention for the restoration of order, peace, and effective governance.
According to Dr. Nwambu, the President, in invoking Section 305 of the Constitution, has acted within his constitutional rights and obligations. This provision allows for the declaration of a state of emergency in situations where the government is unable to maintain order or ensure good governance. The chaotic political environment in Rivers State necessitated such an extraordinary measure.
He also said that the current leadership in Rivers State, represented by Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, has not made adequate attempts to address the deteriorating situation. Their failure to seek the assistance of the President as mandated in Section 305(5) indicates a lack of readiness and capability to govern effectively. It is the duty of the President to intervene when local leaders are unable or unwilling to fulfill their responsibilities to the people.
The coalition further said that the ongoing unrest and political instability in Rivers State pose significant risks to the safety and security of its citizens. A state of emergency provides an imperative framework to restore peace, address the sources of conflict, and create an environment conducive to effective governance.
“The nomination of Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) as Administrator is a strategic decision aimed at stabilizing the state’s affairs. His vast experience will help steer the state towards a path of recovery, focusing on law and order while upholding the principles of justice and governance. The Administrator’s role will be to ensure the continuity of governance and the restoration of public confidence in the state leadership.
“We commend the assurance that the judicial arm of the Rivers State government will continue to operate independently. This underscores the respect for the rule of law while allowing the necessary interventions in government.
“As civil right coalition, we stand in affirming the recent actions taken by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as well as the resolutions passed by both the Senate and the House of Representatives concerning the state of emergency in Rivers State.
“The prolonged political turmoil between the executive and legislative arms of government in Rivers State has led to a governance crisis that requires immediate and decisive action. We commend President Tinubu for his bold declaration of a state of emergency aimed at restoring order and ensuring effective governance. The suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly is a necessary step to facilitate this process.
“Furthermore, we fully support the Senate’s resolution to invoke Section 11 of Section 4 of the Nigerian Constitution, empowering the National Assembly to establish a Joint Advisory Committee to oversee the administration of Rivers State during this period. This oversight is crucial for ensuring that the interests of the citizens are maintained and that stability is restored.
“We also welcome the Senate’s suggestion to form a committee of eminent Nigerians tasked with reconciling the conflicting parties within the government of Rivers State. Such an initiative is essential not only for immediate resolution of the ongoing crisis but also for fostering a more collaborative and effective governance structure in the future.
“The House of Representatives’ affirmation of the state of emergency further reinforces the consensus on the need for urgent intervention. We believe that these measures are in the best interest of the people of Rivers State and Nigeria as a whole.
“As we navigate this critical juncture, we urge all stakeholders to contribute to a peaceful and productive resolution of the crisis. It is only through collective action and dialogue that we can restore hope and trust in governance.
“We look forward to the implementation of the aforementioned recommendations and stand ready to support any measures that prioritize the welfare and rights of the citizens of Rivers State.
“As champions of good governance, we believe that this declaration is an essential step towards restoring the rule of law, stability, and effective leadership in Rivers State. It is our collective responsibility to prioritize the welfare of the people of Rivers staye above all political considerations. By standing together and supporting this urgent intervention, we can contribute to the restoration of peace and the establishment of a government that truly serves the interests of the citizens.
“We appreciate your attention to this important matter and look forward to the cooperation of all stakeholders in ensuring a swift and effective resolution to the situation in Rivers State, the briefing concluded.
