A coalition of concerned Nigerians has written to the African Union (AU) to express strong opposition to President Bola Tinubu’s recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State. The group condemned the move as a blatant abuse of power and a violation of Nigeria’s Constitution, democratic principles, and the rule of law.
In a letter addressed to the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Alhaji Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, the coalition called for urgent intervention to prevent further erosion of democracy in Nigeria. The letter criticized President Tinubu’s decision to suspend Rivers State Governor Sir Siminilayi Fubara and the State House of Assembly, describing it as unconstitutional and setting a dangerous precedent for governance in Africa.
The coalition argued that the President’s actions contravene Section 305 of the Nigerian Constitution, which does not grant him the authority to suspend elected officials. It further stated that the Constitution outlines clear procedures for the removal of a governor under Section 188, which were not followed in this case.
“We are writing to express our utmost dismay, disappointment, and disillusionment over the recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu. This decision is not only a gross abuse of power but also a blatant disregard for the Constitution, democratic principles, and the rule of law,” the letter read.
The coalition also raised concerns about the broader implications of this action, warning that it could lead to unrest, undermine democratic institutions, and damage Nigeria’s standing as a leader in African democracy. The group urged the AU to intervene swiftly to uphold democratic values.
Specifically, the coalition urged the African Union Commission to:
Condemn the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State and the suspension of its democratically elected government.
Call on President Tinubu to lift the emergency rule and reinstate the Governor and State House of Assembly.
Dispatch a fact-finding mission to Rivers State to investigate the circumstances leading to the emergency declaration.
Ensure that Nigeria adheres to democratic governance, human rights, and the rule of law.
The letter was signed by prominent figures, including Professor Senator Opeyemi Ola, Professor Adah George, Rt. Hon. Dr. James Oloko, and Dr. Mrs. Evelyn E. Ogolime. The coalition emphasized the urgency of the matter and called for an immediate response from the AU.
As reactions continue to pour in from various quarters, political analysts warn that the situation in Rivers State could have far-reaching consequences for Nigeria’s democracy and stability. Meanwhile, the presidency is yet to officially respond to the growing criticism over the state of emergency declaration.
The coming days are expected to witness increased scrutiny from international organizations and civil society groups as Nigeria grapples with the implications of this controversial decision.
See full letter below:
*COALITION OF NIGERIANS*
No. 24 Seriki Street, Off Odunsi Street, Bariga Shomolu Lagos, Nigeria.
March 26, 2025
His Excellency, Alhaji Mahmoud Ali Youssouf,
The Chairperson, African Union Commission,
P. O. Box 3243, Roosevelt Street W21K19,
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Your Excellency,
UNCONSTITUTIONAL DECLARATION OF STATE OF EMERGENCY IN RIVERS STATE: A THREAT TO DEMOCRACY IN NIGERIA AND AFRICA
We are writing to express our utmost dismay, disappointment, and disillusionment over the recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu. This decision is not only a gross abuse of power but also a blatant disregard for the Constitution, democratic principles, and the rule of law.
With President Tinubu as the Chairman of ECOWAS, Nigeria is expected to be a shining example of democratic governance in Africa. Unfortunately, President Tinubu’s actions have fallen woefully short of this expectation. His decision to suspend the democratically elected Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminilayi Fubara, and the State House of Assembly, is a clear violation of the Constitution and an affront to democratic principles.
Section 305 of the Constitution, which the President cited as the basis for his action, does not grant him the power to suspend or remove elected officials. The Constitution is clear on the grounds for removing a governor, which is explicitly stated in Section 188. The President’s action is a blatant disregard for the Constitution and the democratic process.
This action is not only a threat to democracy in Nigeria but also sets a dangerous precedent for the suppression of democratic institutions and the rule of law in Africa. It is imperative that the African Union Commission takes immediate action to address this situation and ensure that democratic principles are upheld.
The implications of this action are far-reaching, and if left unchecked, could lead to a breakdown in law and order, undermine the legitimacy of democratic institutions, and damage Nigeria’s reputation as a beacon of democracy in Africa. Furthermore, this action raises serious concerns about the President’s commitment to democracy and the rule of law. It is worrisome that the President would resort to such draconian measures, rather than exploring democratic solutions to the challenges facing Rivers State.
We are also concerned about the potential consequences of this action on the stability of Nigeria and the African region. The suspension of democratic institutions and the imposition of emergency rule could lead to widespread unrest, violence, and instability. In addition, this action undermines the principles of federalism and the autonomy of states in Nigeria. The President’s decision to suspend the Governor and the State House of Assembly is a clear infringement on the powers of the state government and a violation of the principle of separation of powers.
We urge you to prevail upon President Tinubu to immediately lift the State of Emergency in Rivers State and restore the democratically elected government. We request that the African Union Commission take concrete steps to ensure that Nigeria, as a member state, upholds the principles of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. We also request that the African Union Commission take the following steps:
*Condemns the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State and the suspension of the democratically elected Governor and State House of Assembly.
*Calls on President Tinubu to immediately lift the State of Emergency and restore the democratically elected government.
*Sends a fact-finding mission to Rivers State to investigate the circumstances surrounding the declaration of a state of emergency and the suspension of democratic institutions.
*Takes concrete steps to ensure that Nigeria, as a member state, upholds the principles of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.
We look forward to your prompt response and action.
Signed;
Professor Senator Opeyemi Ola
Professor Adah George
Rt. Hon Dr James Oloko
Dr. Mrs Evelyn E. Ogolime
