Reverse emergency rule in Rivers, Nigerian Professionals in Europe Tell Tinubu
The Association of Nigerian Professionals in Europe (ANPE) has condemned the recent imposition of a state of emergency in Rivers State, calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reverse the decision and restore democratic governance in the state
Last Tuesday March 18, 2025, President Bola Tinubu relying on Section 305 of the Constitution, declared a state of emergency in Rivers, citing the protracted political crisis and vandalisation of oil facilities.
The president suspended Siminalayi Fubara, governor of the state; Ngozi Odu, his deputy; and all house of assembly members; for six months.
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Tinubu also appointed Ibok-Ete Ibas, a retired vice-admiral, as the sole administrator for Rivers state.
On Thursday, both Senate and the House of Representates ratified the Tinubu’s request for the emergency rule through voice votes, a development that has continued to raise questions.
ANPE in a statement issued by its Global President, Dr. Philip Fola, on Tuesday, expressed deep concern over the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and other elected officials, describing the move as unconstitutional and damaging to Nigeria’s democratic reputation. The group warned that such actions could erode investors’ confidence and further destabilise the nation’s fragile economy.
ANPE argued that the imposition of emergency rule signals a dangerous shift toward authoritarianism, undermining the principles of federalism and due process enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution. The group noted that Nigeria, once hailed as a beacon of democracy in Africa, is now facing growing criticisms.
“The suspension of elected officials without due process is a clear violation of democratic norms,” the statement read. Nigeria’s reputation as a stable investment destination is at stake. This arbitrary abrogation of constitutional procedures erodes trust in Nigeria’s dedication to democratic values, which discourages potential investors. It is a fact that the Nigerian Constitution delineates the processes for addressing grievances against elected officials, none of which is the unilateral imposition of a state of emergency by the federal government. By ignoring this legal procedure, the President not only set a dangerous precedent but also signalled a disregard for the principles of federalism. This authoritarian manoeuvre has drawn criticism from international observers, destroying Nigeria’s status as an investment destination.
“It is a thing of disappointment that our beloved country which was once praised as a beacon
of democracy in Africa, is gradually being perceived by international communities as a nation that is failing in its democratic ideals. Many international bodies and foreign governments have expressed disapproving concerns over the erosion of democratic norms in Nigeria. This
perception has been further exacerbated by the actions of President Tinubu as an emergent
dictator in the international circuit. Such descriptions, whether accurate or hyperbolic, have
had a chilling effect on Nigeria’s global standing, tarnishing its reputation as a stable and democratic investment destination”, the group said.
The statement further accused the National Assembly of failing in its duty to check executive overreach, calling on lawmakers to investigate the constitutionality of the emergency rule in Rivers State. ANPE also urged the judiciary to uphold the rule of law by ensuring that constitutional procedures are followed in addressing political crises.
“Furthermore, the Association of Nigerian Professionals in Europe (ANPE) is deeply troubled by the decision made by some of the key stakeholders in the face of this constitutional crisis. It is unfortunate that the National Assembly which is tasked with checking executive excesses and upholding the Constitution, has become a disappointment in executing its role as a bulwark against authoritarianism.
“Their support for this blatant violation of constitutional norms is a disgrace to Nigerians in the diaspora. We call on the National Assembly to reinvestigate this matter thoroughly and to take appropriate action to safeguard Nigeria’s democracy. We also call on the judiciary to adjudicate on the constitutionality of the state of emergency and to ensure that the rule of law prevails”, the group said.
Emphasising the economic implications of political instability, ANPE warned that foreign investors may withdraw or withhold investments due to uncertainty about Nigeria’s commitment to democratic governance. “We in the diaspora have worked tirelessly to promote Nigeria as an investment-friendly nation, but this crisis has made our efforts difficult,” the group lamented.
While calling for immediate reconciliation and dialogue, ANPE urged the federal government to respect state autonomy and democratic institutions. “The strength of our nation lies in our unity and commitment to democracy. President Tinubu must rectify this aberration to safeguard Nigeria’s democratic integrity and economic viability,” the statement added.
The group reaffirmed its commitment to Nigeria’s development and called on all Nigerians—both at home and abroad—to defend democracy, justice, and the rule of law.
