Over 100 CSOs Demand Constitutional Firmness Amid Rivers State Crisis: Calls for Legal Reforms and Political Stability.
By Raymond Enoch
More than 100 Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) from across Nigeria have come together to demand constitutional fidelity and political reform in response to the ongoing crisis in Rivers State. The turmoil, marked by escalating legal and political disputes between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and former Governor Nyesom Wike, threatens not only the governance of Rivers State but also the integrity of Nigeria’s democracy.
At the heart of this crisis lies the defection of 27 lawmakers from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), led by Speaker Honourable Martin Amaewhule. The defection triggered a series of legal battles and, in February 2025, the Supreme Court’s controversial ruling legitimized the defectors without adhering to constitutional principles.
As the political standoff intensifies, President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency on March 18, 2025, has further added to the uncertainty, with the suspension of Governor Fubara, his deputy, and the entire House of Assembly, alongside the appointment of a sole administrator. Critics argue that this move risks overstepping constitutional boundaries and undermining democratic governance.
In a press statement, over 100 CSOs have called for a resolution grounded in Nigeria’s constitutional framework. They argue that the actions taken thus far by political actors, including the military presence in Rivers State, are not only unconstitutional but also threaten the rule of law and the legitimacy of democratic processes across the nation.
The defection of lawmakers, which triggered this crisis, raises serious constitutional concerns. Section 68(1)(g) of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution (as amended) clearly states that lawmakers who defect from the party under which they were elected must vacate their seats unless the original party is divided. However, the Supreme Court’s ruling on the matter contradicts this principle, calling into question the judicial impartiality and independence in such a politically charged case.
Additionally, the legality of the state of emergency declared by the President has come under scrutiny. According to Section 305 of the Constitution, a state of emergency can only be declared in cases of war, natural disasters, or a breakdown of public order. The CSOs contend that the current situation in Rivers State, while volatile, does not meet this threshold. Furthermore, the National Assembly’s approval of the emergency measure has been criticized for not adhering to the constitutional requirement of a recorded 2/3 majority vote.
The CSOs have put forward a series of recommendations to restore legal and political stability in Rivers State:
Judicial Review: The CSOs urge the Supreme Court to revisit its controversial February 2025 ruling, ensuring consistency with the 2015 Abegunde ruling that upholds the sanctity of electoral mandates. They call for by-elections to restore legitimate representation in the Rivers State House of Assembly.
Reversal of State of Emergency: The CSOs recommend that President Tinubu reconsider the declaration of a state of emergency, unless there is clear constitutional justification. The return of Governor Fubara and the elected Assembly should be prioritized, pending a legal resolution of their status.
Mediation and Dialogue: A neutral panel of legal experts, elder statesmen, and civil society leaders should mediate the dispute between the key political figures in Rivers State. This dialogue must focus on de-escalating tensions and prioritizing good governance over personal or political ambitions.
Strengthening Judicial Independence: The CSOs urge the Chief Justice of Nigeria to set up a judicial panel to investigate allegations of bias and ensure that future rulings in Rivers State adhere to constitutional principles, free from political influence.
Public Engagement and Accountability: The CSOs emphasize the importance of transparency and accountability at all levels of government. They call on Nigerian citizens, the media, and civil society groups to stay engaged and demand that all political actors prioritize the public good above partisan interests.
A Test for Nigeria’s Democracy
The CSOs warn that the crisis in Rivers State serves as a critical test for Nigeria’s democratic institutions. If left unresolved, they argue, it could set a dangerous precedent for future instances of constitutional subversion and federal overreach. The CSOs call on all stakeholders—from the Presidency to grassroots communities—to act decisively and with integrity to resolve the conflict and restore order in Rivers State.
The future of Nigeria’s democracy depends on the resolution of this crisis. Ensuring that the rule of law prevails in Rivers State will send a powerful message about Nigeria’s commitment to constitutional democracy and governance.
