By Springnewsng Media Limited | March 20, 2025

The South-South Governors’ Forum has strongly opposed the Federal Government’s declaration of a six-month state of emergency in Rivers State, arguing that the political crisis in the state does not justify such a measure.

In a statement signed by its Chairman, Bayelsa State Governor Senator Douye Diri, the forum acknowledged the President’s responsibility to maintain law and order but insisted that the conditions under Section 305(3) of the Nigerian Constitution for such a declaration had not been met.

“The current political situation in Rivers State does not satisfy the constitutional criteria for declaring a state of emergency. Such action is only warranted in cases of war, external aggression, imminent invasion, a breakdown of public order, existential threats to Nigeria, or major public dangers such as natural disasters,” the statement read.

The governors further noted that constitutional procedures must be followed in resolving political disputes, including the removal of the governor, deputy governor, or members of the House of Assembly, as outlined in Section 188 of the Constitution. They suggested that due process may not have been adequately followed before the emergency declaration.

“Political disputes should be settled through legal and constitutional means, not by executive intervention,” the forum emphasized.

Call for Rescission and Dialogue

As a way forward, the South-South Governors’ Forum called for an immediate reversal of the state of emergency to prevent further escalation of tensions in the region.

They also urged all political actors to remain calm, respect the Nigerian Constitution, and prioritize dialogue over confrontation.

“The moment for dialogue is now,” the statement concluded.

This development is expected to trigger further national debate on the limits of presidential powers and the role of state government