President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and all state lawmakers for an initial period of six months. This action was taken in response to escalating political tensions between the governor and the state House of Assembly, which had led to violence and threats to law and order.
Historically, the effectiveness of declaring a state of emergency to resolve political conflicts in Nigeria has been debated. While such measures can restore order temporarily, they may also undermine democratic principles and weaken institutions. For instance, the 1962 state of emergency in Nigeria’s Western Region addressed immediate security concerns but raised questions about federal overreach and political motivations.
In the current situation, some organizations, such as the Nigerian Bar Association, have criticized the declaration as illegal, arguing that emergencies should not dissolve elected governments. Additionally, there are concerns that frequent use of emergency powers could erode trust in democratic processes.
It is noteworthy that while critics have raised concerns about endangering democracy, they have not proposed solutions aimed at saving endangered lives in Rivers State. It is indubitable that people need to be alive to enjoy and practice democracy, and the Nigerian constitution states eloquently in Section 14 that the primary purpose of government is SECURITY and WELFARE of the people. A responsible president must not sacrifice the security and welfare of the people on the altar of “democracy.”
An important question to ask is that, can there be democracy without government? I think not.
The Supreme Court has only a few weeks ago declared: “There is no government in Rivers State.” Governor Fubara and the Rivers State House of Assembly needed to ensure that democratic governance was restored in Rivers State. They failed! Accordingly, the presidential declaration of emergency rule in Rivers State suspending the governor and the state legislature did not, and has not threatened democracy. You don’t kill what has already died.
The governor himself unilaterally “knocked out” the state legislature until the Supreme Court rebuked him unreservedly. Additionally, he demolished the hallowed and historic building of the Rivers State House of Assembly!
Nonetheless, while the state of emergency may provide a short-term solution to restore order, it is crucial to address the underlying political issues through dialogue and adherence to the rule of law to ensure long-term stability in Rivers State. This is what the members of the Rivers State House of Assembly and Governor Fubara (along with his deputy) should strive to do during their forced “six-month vacation.”
