The declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ignited a nationwide debate, drawing sharp criticism from various political factions, legal experts, and civil society organizations. The move, ostensibly aimed at quelling the protracted political crisis between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor Nyesom Wike, has been widely condemned as an overreach of executive power and a threat to Nigeria's democratic foundations.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has been particularly vocal in its opposition. The party's National Working Committee (NWC) has accused President Tinubu and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike of attempting to destabilize Rivers State and the broader South-South region in anticipation of the 2027 presidential election. PDP National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba asserted that Tinubu's actions effectively suspend the 1999 Constitution, overturn a democratic government, and impose an undemocratic regime, violating multiple sections of the Constitution.

PDP Governors’ Forum (PDPGF) and the Nigerian Bar Association(NBA) have advised President Tinubu to reverse the emergency rule in the state. They said in separate statements that the action was unconstitutional and a threat to democracy. Their views were made known in statements by Bala Mohammed (PDPGF chairman) and Afam Osigwe (NBA president).

Conversely, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has defended the declaration, arguing that Governor Fubara's actions instigated the crisis. The APC contends that Fubara's demolition of the Rivers State House of Assembly and expenditure of state funds without legislative appropriation undermined the foundations of democracy in the state. The party insists that Tinubu's declaration was a necessary, constitutionally-backed measure to protect lives and property and ensure governance for the people.

Reactions from Rivers State residents have been mixed. Some express anger and concern, questioning the rationale behind the declaration and arguing that there was no breakdown of law and order to justify such action. Others support the move, viewing it as necessary to prevent further political unrest and violent confrontations. Former Anambra State governor Peter Obi has called on the National Assembly and all stakeholders not to allow emergency rule in the state.

The declaration's legal and constitutional implications have also come under scrutiny. Critics argue that it violates Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, which outlines the conditions for declaring a state of emergency. Concerns have been raised about the suspension of elected officials, including the governor, deputy governor, and members of the State House of Assembly, as well as the appointment of a retired military officer as the state's administrator.

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have jointly condemned the declaration as an assault on democracy, arguing that it violates Section 305 of the Constitution and constitutes an overreach of executive power. They have demanded the immediate reversal of the declaration to safeguard democracy, economic stability, and the welfare of Nigerian workers.

The Zamfara State chapter of the PDP has criticized Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle for supporting the suspension of Governor Fubara, accusing him of hypocrisy given his own track record of undermining democratic principles during his tenure as Governor of Zamfara State.

Amidst the political turmoil, the National Assembly now faces the critical task of reviewing and potentially approving President Tinubu's declaration. Senator Seriake Dickson has expressed skepticism that the declaration will garner the necessary two-thirds majority vote in the legislature, citing concerns about protecting the sovereignty of the people of Rivers State and upholding democratic rights.

The unfolding events in Rivers State raise fundamental questions about the balance of power between the federal and state governments, the limits of executive authority, and the resilience of Nigeria's democratic institutions. The coming days will be crucial in determining the fate of Rivers State and the broader implications for Nigeria's democratic trajectory.