The South-South Governors’ Forum has urged President Bola Tinubu to reconsider the recently declared state of emergency in Rivers State, describing the move as unnecessary and inconsistent with constitutional provisions.
In a statement issued on Thursday and signed by the forum’s chairman, Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State, the governors called for a peaceful and lawful approach to resolving the political tensions in Rivers.
“To reduce tensions and establish a foundation for enduring peace, we propose the rescission of the state of emergency,” the statement read.
While acknowledging the president’s responsibility to uphold law and order, the forum emphasized that the situation in Rivers State does not meet the conditions stipulated under Section 305(3) of the 1999 Constitution for such an emergency declaration.
“The South-South Governors’ Forum expresses concern that the current political situation in Rivers State does not satisfy the criteria for declaring a state of emergency,” the statement added.
The governors further rejected the suspension of democratic institutions, stressing that constitutional provisions clearly outline the procedures for the removal of elected officials such as the governor and members of the House of Assembly.
“The time for dialogue is now,” the forum stated, calling on all stakeholders to exercise restraint and work toward a peaceful resolution grounded in democratic principles and the rule of law.
The appeal comes amid mounting concerns from civil society and political observers who have cautioned against escalating tensions in the oil-rich state.