Rivers: PDP Governors Rush to Supreme Court to Shield Themselves from Emergency Rule

The decision by governors from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to take President Bola Tinubu and the National Assembly to the Supreme Court over the suspension of Rivers State Governor Sim Fubara has reignited debates on federalism in Nigeria. The governors argue that the six-month suspension imposed on Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly is unconstitutional and sets a dangerous precedent.

According to court filings, the PDP governors are seeking a declaration that the President’s actions violate key sections of the 1999 Constitution. They contend that Tinubu overstepped his authority in suspending elected officials and appointing a Sole Administrator for the oil-rich state. The governors want the Supreme Court to nullify the suspension, reinstate Fubara, and restrain the President from taking similar actions against other governors, particularly those outside his party.

They also argue that the National Assembly’s approval of the emergency rule was flawed, as it was done via a voice vote instead of the constitutionally required two-thirds majority. The legal action underscores growing tensions between the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and opposition parties over the balance of power in Nigeria.

The controversy highlights long-standing calls for true federalism and power devolution. Under the Buhari administration, the APC had set up a committee on restructuring, which recommended transferring more power from the federal government to the states. However, these proposals have largely remained unimplemented.

Opposition figures and civil society groups have criticized the federal government’s handling of the Rivers crisis. Chief Peter Ameh of the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) described the move as a “power grab,” arguing that the real issue is the control of state resources. Similarly, Auwal Musa of the Civil Society Legislative and Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) expressed skepticism about meaningful constitutional amendments under the current administration, stating that the political system is too monetized to allow genuine reforms.

Labour Party spokesperson Obiora Ifoh said the party would consult with stakeholders before taking a formal position but emphasized the need for a legal reassessment of emergency rule provisions. As the Supreme Court prepares to hear the case, the outcome could have significant implications for Nigeria’s governance structure and the autonomy of state governments.