Rivers State Emergency: Presidency Rebukes Jonathan and Soyinka Amid Political Turmoil

The Nigerian political landscape has been thrown into fresh turbulence following the federal government's declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State. This drastic action, which led to the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the state legislature, has sparked heated debates across the nation. Adding fuel to the fire, former President Goodluck Jonathan and Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka have openly condemned the move, calling it an abuse of federal power. In response, the Presidency has issued a scathing rebuttal, labeling their criticism as "misguided" and "unwarranted."

This development marks a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey, raising constitutional concerns, security questions, and fears of executive overreach. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the crisis, the high-profile backlash, and what this means for Nigeria’s political stability.

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Rivers State Under Emergency Rule: What Happened?

On March 18, 2025, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, citing escalating political instability and rising threats to national security. The move resulted in:

✔️ Suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy
✔️ Dissolution of the Rivers State House of Assembly
✔️ Appointment of Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as a sole administrator

The federal government justified the drastic action by pointing to reports of pipeline vandalism, violent political clashes, and governance breakdowns threatening national interests. The oil-rich region has long been a focal point of economic and political tensions, making stability a top priority for Abuja.

Presidential Spokesperson: "This Was Unavoidable"

In an official statement, Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga defended the decision, stating:

“Rivers State was on the brink of anarchy. This intervention is not about politics—it is about safeguarding national stability. We cannot allow insecurity and sabotage to spiral out of control.”

However, critics argue that the situation did not warrant a full-blown emergency rule, claiming that the suspension of elected officials undermines democracy.

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Jonathan and Soyinka Slam the Federal Government

Goodluck Jonathan: "This Sets a Dangerous Precedent"

Former President Goodluck Jonathan was one of the first to react, expressing grave concern over the implications for democracy. According to him, suspending an elected governor and lawmakers damages Nigeria’s reputation:

"This move has the potential to set a dangerous precedent where governors can be removed at will under the guise of 'security concerns.'"

Jonathan also warned of diplomatic backlash, stating that Nigeria’s international image is at stake.

Wole Soyinka: "A Betrayal of Federalism"

Renowned literary icon and Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka went a step further, calling the state of emergency an unconstitutional power grab. He emphasized that Nigeria operates on a federal system, and states must be allowed to manage their affairs without excessive federal interference.

In a fiery statement, Soyinka declared:

"This is an executive overreach of the highest order. The problems in Rivers were serious, but not severe enough to justify dissolving a whole government."

His remarks sparked nationwide debates on the balance of power between state and federal governments.

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The Presidency Hits Back: "Unfounded and Reckless Criticism"

In an aggressive counterattack, the Presidency dismissed Jonathan and Soyinka’s remarks, stating that their views fail to grasp the gravity of the crisis.

Presidential media aide Ajuri Ngelale issued a rebuttal, saying:

"These critics are misrepresenting the facts. The federal government acted in line with the constitution, ensuring that law and order are restored in Rivers State. Their comments are misleading and dangerous."

The administration maintains that the intervention was necessary and has called for patience while normalcy is restored.

The emergency rule has already triggered legal battles, with advocacy group SERAP (Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project) filing a lawsuit against President Tinubu. The group argues that the suspension of an elected governor violates constitutional rights and sets a dangerous anti-democratic precedent.

Meanwhile, public opinion is sharply divided:

✅ Supporters argue that security threats justified decisive action, citing similar interventions in other countries facing governance crises.

❌ Opponents see the move as an executive overreach that could undermine Nigeria’s federal structure and weaken democracy.

As the case moves to Nigeria’s Supreme Court, legal experts are weighing in on whether the state of emergency complies with constitutional provisions.

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What This Means for Nigeria's Democracy

1️⃣ Federal vs. State Powers

This crisis reignites long-standing debates over the balance of power in Nigeria’s federal system. Should the President have unilateral authority to suspend elected officials? Legal scholars and constitutional experts are split on this issue.

2️⃣ Political Precedent for Future Governors

Critics argue that if this move goes unchallenged, future presidents could use emergency powers to remove any governor they oppose. This could shift Nigeria’s democracy toward a more centralized system, limiting state autonomy.

3️⃣ Impact on Economic Stability in the Niger Delta

With Rivers State being a major oil-producing region, political instability could affect investor confidence. The oil and gas sector is closely watching the crisis, as prolonged governance uncertainty could impact production and international contracts.

The Rivers State emergency rule saga is more than a political dispute—it is a defining moment for Nigeria’s democracy. With Jonathan, Soyinka, and the federal government locked in a fierce debate, the country faces critical decisions about how power is exercised and how democracy is upheld.

As legal challenges unfold and public reactions intensify, one thing is certain: this battle will shape Nigeria’s political landscape for years to come.

With ongoing legal battles, global scrutiny, and mounting political tensions, all eyes are on Rivers State. The next few months will determine the trajectory of Nigerian democracy, and whether federal power remains unchecked or is constitutionally restrained.

As the story unfolds, we remain committed to delivering accurate, in-depth reporting to help you understand the full implications of this historic event.