The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), has begun preparing a Supreme Court defense in response to a lawsuit filed by 11 Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governors challenging President Bola Tinubu’s emergency declaration in Rivers State.
The governors, represented by a formidable legal team of 11 Senior Advocates of Nigeria and six other lawyers, argue that Tinubu exceeded his constitutional authority by suspending elected officials and installing a sole administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok Ete Ibas (retd.), to oversee the state’s affairs.
In suit number SC/CV/329/2025, the governors from Adamawa, Enugu, Osun, Oyo, Bauchi, Akwa Ibom, Plateau, Delta, Taraba, Zamfara, and Bayelsa claim the move violates key provisions of the 1999 Constitution, specifically sections 1(2), 5(2), 176, 180, 188, and 305. They contend the actions undermine federalism and democratic governance.
Sources within the AGF’s office confirm that work is underway to finalize Tinubu’s legal defense. The Supreme Court has yet to announce a date for the hearing.
Parallel Legal Action in Port Harcourt
Meanwhile, a separate case has been filed at the Federal High Court in Port Harcourt by former federal lawmaker Farah Dagogo. He is challenging the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the Rivers State House of Assembly.
The court has scheduled a hearing for May 12, 2025, and has approved substituted service due to challenges in reaching the defendants directly.
House of Reps Steps In
In a bold move, the House of Representatives has announced the formation of an ad-hoc committee to temporarily take over legislative functions in Rivers State.
The committee, led by House Leader Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, is tasked with overseeing governance and ensuring adherence to constitutional processes amid the emergency.
Support for Fubara
Senator Seriake Dickson has thrown his weight behind Governor Fubara, commending his restraint in the face of the political upheaval.
During a solidarity visit, Dickson urged Rivers residents, particularly within the Ijaw community, to stay calm and avoid provocation.
Tompolo Breaks Silence
Former militant leader and Tantita Security Services CEO, Government Ekpemupolo (popularly known as Tompolo), also addressed the crisis during his 54th birthday celebration.
He voiced optimism that Fubara would return to office and urged both Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, to de-escalate tensions. Tompolo emphasized dialogue over conflict, warning that the Ijaw nation must not be drawn into violence.
