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Summary
Senator Nenadi Usman has denounced President Tinubu’s decision to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State, calling it an undemocratic move that threatens Nigeria’s constitutional order. Hilda Dokubo also criticised the federal government’s approach, highlighting Fubara’s positive impact on state governance.
Senator Nenadi Usman, Chairperson of the Labour Party Caretaker Committee and former Minister of Finance, has strongly condemned President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State. The declaration, which includes the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and all elected members of the State House of Assembly, has sparked widespread criticism over concerns about its implications for Nigeria’s democracy.
In a press release issued on Wednesday, Mar. 19, 2025, Senator Nenadi described the federal government’s action as a “blatant subversion of democratic principles” and an attack on the constitutional foundation of the country. She warned that suspending elected officials undermines the rights of Rivers State residents and sets a dangerous precedent for governance in Nigeria.
“While concerns regarding pipeline vandalism and political unrest are legitimate, the federal government’s unconstitutional and heavy-handed approach is not the best way out,” Nenadi said. “Addressing such issues requires adherence to the rule of law, constructive dialogue, and collaboration with the state government—not the imposition of authoritarian measures.”
She urged the federal government to withdraw its declaration, reinstate the suspended officials, and engage in meaningful dialogue to resolve the challenges facing Rivers State. She further emphasised that Nigeria’s democracy was won through years of struggle and must not be undermined by actions that disregard democratic values.
Hilda Dokubo, Chairperson of the Labour Party in Rivers State and a well-known social justice advocate, also criticised the government’s approach in a video interview. Reflecting on past administrations, she said,
“They named everybody militants. It dropped the state to zero… Fubara came, and suddenly, we all realised that the riverine communities were not so bad for development any longer.”
Dokubo credited Fubara’s leadership with improving governance in Rivers State compared to previous administrations.
The declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State has reignited concerns about federal overreach and the erosion of democratic institutions. Political activists, civil society groups and citizens continue to call for a peaceful resolution that respects the democratic process and the will of the people.
