Civil society groups in Nigeria’s Northwest Zone have demanded President Bola Tinubu immediately revoke the state of emergency declared in Rivers State.
In a joint statement, the Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room condemned the March 18, 2025, proclamation as unconstitutional, warning it threatens democratic norms.
The groups criticized the appointment of a federally appointed administrator, calling it an assault on federalism and elected governance.
Mustapha Yahaya, representing the coalition, emphasized the move violates constitutional sovereignty.
“The President lacks authority to impose unelected leaders on states,” he stated, stressing such actions erode trust in democracy.
The coalition warned the decision sets a dangerous precedent, enabling future federal overreach under vague pretenses.
They argued removing elected officials without justification undermines Nigeria’s progress since 1999.
Specifically, the groups urged Tinubu to reverse the emergency declaration, reinstate ousted leaders, and publicly apologize to Rivers State residents.
They also called on the judiciary to condemn the action and prevent similar abuses.
“Democracy cannot survive if federal might overrules voter mandates,” the statement read.
Meanwhile, the coalition rallied citizens, political parties, and global allies to reject the suspension of democratic processes.
Endorsing organizations include the Centre for Information Technology and Development, Rural Youth Initiative Kebbi, and Women Widows and Orphans Development Initiatives.
These groups fear unchecked federal power could normalize authoritarian tactics, destabilizing Nigeria’s fragile democracy.
“Rivers State must not become a casualty of political games,” the coalition asserted, urging unity to protect constitutional rights.
Critics argue the emergency declaration reflects deepening tensions between federal and state authorities.
By sidelining elected representatives, the move risks fueling public distrust and regional discontent. Furthermore, the coalition highlighted parallels to past dictatorships, cautioning against silencing dissent through legal overreach. “Democracy thrives on accountability, not imposition,” the statement concluded.
As pressure mounts, observers await Tinubu’s response and potential judicial intervention. The Situation Room reaffirmed its commitment to defending governance principles, urging stakeholders to prioritize transparency. With Nigeria’s democratic stability at stake, the resolution of this conflict could shape the nation’s political trajectory for years.
The international community has yet to weigh in, but local activists stress solidarity is critical. “Silence now invites further erosion of rights,” warned one organizer. For Rivers State residents, the fight transcends politics—it’s a battle for self-determination. As debates intensify, the nation watches closely, hoping dialogue prevails over division.
