Over 100 civil society organisations has called for thorough analysis of recent developments, alongside actionable solutions to restore peace, legality, and governance in Rivers state. 

The ongoing political and legal turmoil in Rivers state has reached a critical stage, threatening the stability of democratic institutions and the rule of law in Nigeria.

In a joint press release, the CSOs underscored the need to engage Nigerians across all sectors, including policymakers, citizens, and the media.

According to them, overview of recent developments Rivers state had been embroiled in a protracted conflict between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.

“This rift fractured the Rivers State House of Assembly. In December 2023, 27 lawmakers, led by the Speaker, Honourable Martin Amaewhule, defected from the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). 

“The defection sparked a series of legal and political disputes, culminating in a controversial Supreme Court of Nigeria ruling on February 28, 2025, which recognised the defected lawmakers as legitimate and directed Governor Fubara to re-present the 2025 Rivers state annual budget to them.

“Subsequent events have escalated tensions: President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency on March 18, 2025, suspending Governor Fubara, his deputy, and the entire House of Assembly for six months, appointing Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd) as Sole Administrator.

“This move has sparked widespread debate about its constitutionality, with reports of military deployment to the Government House and attacks on local government secretariats further destabilising the state.

“The Rivers state commissioners have also dragged the Amaewhule-led Assembly to court, alleging attempts to nullify their appointments, while Ijaw groups and civil society organizations have issued warnings against external interference,” they said.

The joint press release was signed by Accord for Community Development (ACD),Adinya Arise Foundation (AAF), Agape Foundation for Literacy and Rural Development (AFLRD),Agnemark Initiative for Environmental Sustainability and Social Development,Alheri Peace Building and Empowerment Foundation (APBEF), Amaclare Connect and Development Initiative, ApiriHallowed Foundation (AHF) and others.