Eleven PDP governors have filed a lawsuit at the Supreme Court contesting President Bola Tinubu’s suspension of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers. The coalition, comprising Adamawa, Enugu, Osun, Oyo, Bauchi, Akwa Ibom, Plateau, Delta, Taraba, Zamfara and Bayelsa states, argues these actions violate constitutional provisions on state autonomy.
Filed through their respective Attorneys General, the suit presents eight constitutional questions regarding presidential powers. The governors maintain that only the legislature can authorize such emergency measures under Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, not executive fiat.
“This isn’t just about Rivers State but about preserving our federal structure,” stated one of the participating Attorneys General. “The constitution clearly delineates powers between federal and state governments.”
Legal experts suggest the case could redefine Nigeria’s power dynamics, with potential ramifications for future federal-state conflicts. The Supreme Court has yet to schedule a hearing date for what observers describe as a landmark constitutional challenge.
The move comes amid ongoing political tensions in Rivers State following Fubara’s suspension and replacement with a sole administrator. Constitutional lawyers note the case tests the boundaries of emergency powers in Nigeria’s democracy.
