The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) recently condemned the state of emergency in Rivers State and the suspension of the Executive Governor, Dr. Siminilayi Fubara, his deputy, Mrs. Ngozi Odu, and the elected representatives of the State House of Assembly by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, labeling it a “political coup” that undermines the democratic will of the electorate.

In a widely published statement issued by Executive Director Comrade Ibrahim M. Zikirullahi, CHRICED asserted that the President’s action is unconstitutional and sets a dangerous precedent for Nigeria’s democracy. While Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution grants the President the authority to declare a state of emergency, it does not empower him to suspend duly elected officials, including the governor, deputy governor, or state assembly members.

CHRICED also raised concerns that despite Wike’s alleged central role in the crisis, he continues to occupy his ministerial position, while Governor Fubara and other elected officials have been suspended. CHRICED questioned the fairness and justice of this selective accountability.

Referencing similar political interference in Kano State, particularly the emirate crisis involving federal backing for the deposed Emir Aminu Ado Bayero, CHRICED warned that such actions undermine democratic principles and cast doubt on President Tinubu’s commitment to democracy. The statement concluded by calling on the President to immediately dismiss Nyesom Wike from his ministerial role and conduct a comprehensive investigation into his involvement in the Rivers State crisis.