State of emergency declaration in Rivers & the way forward, by Engr. Bello Gwarzo Abdullahi, FNSE
In a turn of events that was foreseeable given the political landscape in Rivers State, the declaration of a state of emergency on Tuesday, 18 March 2025, did not come as a shock. The only element of surprise, if any, lies in how the presidency was misled into believing that the approach taken to address the crises would lead to a resolution.
Nonetheless, this action has further deepened the sense of hopelessness among the already distressed population. Our overburdened security forces, already engaged in various hotspots across the country, are now confronted with the daunting task of restoring order in a state grappling with political turmoil, barely contained militants, and the nerve center of our primary source of foreign revenue – petroleum.
With these developments in Rivers, Nigerians are now confronted with an additional grave concern with far-reaching implications. Nevertheless, amidst this chaos, I cling to the unwavering belief that our resilience, dedication, and unity in the face of formidable threats will prevail, guiding us through this challenging period.
The decision to impose a state of emergency in Rivers State has raised numerous queries regarding the rationale behind such a drastic measure. To comprehend this, it is imperative to delve into the key points emphasized in the President’s speech.
The President’s justification for this decisive action stems from several pivotal factors: The ongoing political unrest in Rivers State, which has not only disrupted the democratic process but has also deprived the state’s citizens of the essential benefits that democracy should offer.
For instance, the protests and demonstrations that have paralyzed the state have impeded economic activities, resulting in a decline in livelihoods for many residents. Despite various efforts by different stakeholders to mediate the crisis, a deadlock persists, leading to a harmful stalemate in the state’s affairs. This impasse has halted progress and cultivated a sense of unease among the populace.
The Governor of Rivers State has been accused of engaging in unconstitutional activities, such as dismantling the House of Assembly and obstructing the legislative process.
The Supreme Court’s rebuke of the Governor for governing the state without the constitutionally mandated legislative branch sheds light on the gravity of the situation. These actions have underscored the urgent need to reinstate constitutional democracy in Rivers State. It is evident that the Governor’s actions have disrupted the balance of power and governance in the state, causing a breakdown in the rule of law.
Given the failure of the Governor and Deputy Governor to seek constitutional remedies, the President had no option but to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State.
This move resulted in the suspension of the Governor, Deputy Governor, and elected House members for a period of six months. Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) was appointed as the Administrator to oversee the state’s affairs during this transitional phase, ensuring stability and adherence to constitutional principles. The appointment of an Administrator aims to restore order and ensure that the state operates within the framework of the law.
The Administrator’s duties include maintaining peace and order in Rivers State by ensuring that all political actors adhere to constitutional norms. Recent security reports highlighting instances of pipeline vandalism by militants have prompted increased security measures to safeguard lives and critical infrastructure in the region. These efforts aim to restore a sense of security and stability in the state, paving the way for a return to normalcy. By addressing security challenges and enforcing the rule of law, the Administrator seeks to create a conducive environment for dialogue and conflict resolution.
Evaluating the President’s speech from a “cause and effect”perspective sheds light on the underlying factors that have led to the current situation in Rivers State, specifically the interference in the state’s affairs by the former Governor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Chief Nyesom Wike.
This is evident to any astute observer of the genesis of the problem. The attempts to mediate peace between the Governor and the Minister are skewed in favor of the Minister, and truth be told, even the Governor’s statements are responses to the Minister’s pronouncements.
Furthermore, the presidency holds absolute authority over the Minister, while there are constitutional constraints on how they deal with the elected representative of the people. Hence, questions arise regarding the information available to the President and the potential political motives at play.
The intricate tribal dynamics within the region, particularly the historical power struggles between the Ikwerre and Ijaw ethnic groups, further exacerbate the situation. If the presidency had intervened in the crises impartially and transparently, the situation would not have deteriorated to this extent.
Suspending democracy in Rivers State based on the Supreme Court’s ruling raises concerns about the legitimacy of such drastic actions and their impact on governance. Striking a balance between the necessity for security and the preservation of democratic norms presents a delicate challenge that requires thoughtful consideration and should have been the preferred approach. The decision to suspend democracy has sparked questions about the government’s commitment to upholding democratic principles and the rule of law.
In addressing this crisis, a strategic approach that prioritizes dialogue and inclusivity is crucial. Removing Nyesom Wike from his ministerial position could act as a catalyst for resolving the deadlock and restoring normalcy in Rivers State. This strategy is the most effective if we apply a benefit-cost analysis to the situation.
By engaging in constructive dialogue and utilizing the available constitutional mechanisms, a path to reconciliation and stability can be forged. Ultimately, the government’s dedication to honoring its commitments and promoting fairness in conflict resolution will play a pivotal role in rebuilding trust and unity among Nigerians. It is imperative that all stakeholders collaborate towards a peaceful and sustainable resolution to the crisis in Rivers State.
bgabdullahi@gmail.com
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