A coalition of 21 civil society organisations (CSOs) under the Centre for Credible Leadership and Citizens Awareness (CCLCA) has declared its full support for President Bola Tinubu’s decision to impose a state of emergency in Rivers State, describing it as a constitutional step necessary to restore order.
The declaration follows the National Assembly’s endorsement of the emergency rule on Thursday, with both the Senate and the House of Representatives passing resolutions backing Tinubu’s move.
Addressing journalists in Abuja on Friday, the National Coordinator of CCLCA, Dr Nwambu Gabriel, commended the president for what he called a “sober and constitutional response” to the prolonged political crisis in the state.
“The prolonged political turmoil between the executive and legislative arms of government in Rivers State has led to a governance crisis that requires immediate and decisive action. We commend President Tinubu for his bold declaration of a state of emergency aimed at restoring order and ensuring effective governance,” Gabriel stated.
Justifying the decision, he said Tinubu acted within his constitutional powers, citing Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which allows for a state of emergency in situations where the government is unable to maintain order or ensure good governance.
“The chaotic political environment in Rivers State necessitated such an extraordinary measure,” he added, arguing that the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and the state House of Assembly members was a necessary step to facilitate the restoration of stability.
The group also expressed full support for the Senate’s resolution to invoke Section 11(4) of the Constitution, allowing the National Assembly to establish a Joint Advisory Committee to oversee the state’s administration during the period of emergency rule.
Gabriel further welcomed the Senate’s recommendation to form a committee of eminent Nigerians to mediate between the conflicting parties, saying such an initiative was crucial for long-term peace and effective governance.
“The House of Representatives’ affirmation of the state of emergency further reinforces the consensus on the need for urgent intervention. We believe that these measures are in the best interest of the people of Rivers State and Nigeria as a whole,” he said.
He urged all stakeholders to contribute to a peaceful and productive resolution of the crisis, stressing that only through dialogue and collective action could trust in governance be restored.
