Court rejects suit against Tinubu over Rivers emergency rule

The judge, while delivering judgment in the suit filed by Belema Briggs and four others against the declaration, held that the five plaintiffs lacked the legal power to institute the case.

The judge explained that such a case can only be determined by the Supreme Court.

‎Justice Omotosho further held that the claim that Tinubu imposed the state of emergency to avert a looming breakdown of law and order was neither challenged nor disputed by the plaintiffs.
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‎Justice Omotosho ruled that the plaintiffs’ contention of breach of fundamental rights by the president did not hold water because the appropriate law on emergency rule was invoked by Tinubu to prevent an unpleasant situation.

The court concluded the case was frivolous and baseless, noting the plaintiffs did not obtain the consent of Rivers’ citizens before filing.

‎Tinubu, in March, declared a state of emergency in Rivers State and suspended the Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, deputy, Ngozi Odu, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for six months.

The President appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas as Administrator to oversee the state.

Tinubu cited rising political instability and attacks on oil infrastructure as causes of the emergency. The federal government feared a potential breakdown of law, order, and economic stability.

The emergency aimed to restore security and prevent further disruptions in the state. Tinubu ended the emergency on September 17, citing improved political cooperation and restored stability.

Governor Fubara, his deputy, and the Assembly members resumed duties the next day with supporters welcoming him. Citizens had protested during the emergency, demanding a return to democratic governance.