PDP Rejects Emergency Rule In Rivers, Says Tinubu Has No Powers To Suspend Elected Governor

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has strongly condemned the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing it as an unconstitutional move aimed at undermining democracy.

In a statement released on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, and signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Debo Ologunagba, the opposition party insisted that the President lacked the authority to suspend the elected Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, and replace him with Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (rtd).

The PDP labeled the action as an “attack on democracy” and a violation of the 1999 Constitution, which upholds the right of the people to elect their leaders. The party argued that Tinubu’s decision amounted to “state capture” and was part of a larger plot by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to forcefully take control of Rivers State.

“The unconstitutional declaration by President Tinubu of the suspension of the democratically elected Governor of Rivers State and appointment of an unelected individual is a clear abrogation of the votes and democratic rights of the people,” the statement read.

The PDP further warned that the President’s action could destabilize the country, stating that Section 305 of the Constitution, which Tinubu cited in his declaration, does not grant him unilateral powers to impose emergency rule without the approval of the National Assembly.

The opposition party also cautioned Vice Admiral Ibas (rtd) against assuming control of the state, emphasizing that Nigeria is not under military rule where leaders are appointed at will.

“For emphasis, Governor Fubara was democratically elected for a tenure of four years, which cannot be unconstitutionally abridged,” the PDP stressed.

The party urged Nigerians to resist any attempt to erode democratic values and called on the National Assembly to uphold constitutional principles in addressing the crisis.