State of Emergency: Fubara’s removal unconstitutional, NBA faults Tinubu

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has strongly condemned President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State and the removal of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, describing it as a violation of constitutional principles.

In a statement on Tuesday, NBA President, Mazi Afam Osigwe (SAN), insisted that the President lacks the constitutional authority to remove an elected governor under emergency rule.

“Any such action is an unconstitutional encroachment on democratic governance and the autonomy of state governments,” Osigwe stated.

The NBA further urged the National Assembly to reject any unconstitutional attempt to ratify the removal of Governor Fubara or any other elected official.

“The approval of a state of emergency must be based on strict constitutional grounds, not political expediency,” the statement added.

The legal body also warned that suspending elected officials under emergency rule sets a dangerous precedent, which could be used in the future to illegally unseat governors and undermine democracy.

The NBA demanded that all actions taken in Rivers State strictly adhere to constitutional provisions and respect Nigeria’s democratic norms.

The association further called on the judiciary, civil society, and the international community to closely monitor developments in Rivers State to prevent any unconstitutional governance or abuse of power.