Yiaga Africa strongly condemns the recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State by the President of Nigeria, particularly the unconstitutional suspension of the democratically elected Governor and members of the State House of Assembly. This action poses a serious threat to the core principles of constitutional governance, the rule of law, and democratic practices in Nigeria.
While the Nigerian Constitution grants the President certain powers to declare a state of emergency under specific conditions, Yiaga Africa asserts that these powers must be used responsibly, proportionately, and within the framework of the Constitution. The current situation in Rivers State does not meet the constitutional threshold for declaring a state of emergency, and the suspension of elected officials is a violation of democratic principles.
Yiaga Africa calls for the immediate reversal of the state of emergency declaration and the restoration of all democratic structures and institutions in Rivers State, including the reinstatement of the elected Governor, Deputy Governor, and State Legislature. We also urge the National Assembly to withhold approval of the declaration and ensure that all constitutionally elected officials are reinstated.
We believe that the misuse of emergency powers to suppress political dissent undermines democratic order, and we call on all political actors to prioritize dialogue and reconciliation to prevent further escalation of the crisis.
