Amaechi Accuses Tinubu of Constitutional Breach in Rivers State, Criticizes National Assembly's Inaction

Former Rivers State Governor and ex-Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has publicly criticized President Bola Tinubu's declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, labeling it a "grave breach" of Nigeria's Constitution. He contends that the President's actions, including the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the appointment of a military administrator, undermine democratic principles and violate constitutional provisions.​

Amaechi attributes the situation to the perceived weakness of the National Assembly, asserting that its failure to act as a check on executive power has enabled such constitutional violations. He emphasizes that the legislative and judicial branches have been overshadowed by the executive, leading to a lack of accountability in governance. ​

The state of emergency, declared by President Tinubu on March 18, 2025, was justified by the federal government as a response to political instability and pipeline vandalism in Rivers State. However, the move has been met with criticism from various quarters, including the Nigerian Bar Association, which argues that the Constitution does not permit the suspension of elected officials under emergency rule. ​

In response to the federal government's actions, seven opposition-led state governments have filed a lawsuit at the Supreme Court, challenging the legality of the state of emergency and the suspension of elected officials in Rivers State. The outcome of this legal challenge is anticipated to set a significant precedent regarding the limits of executive power during emergency declarations in Nigeria. ​

Amaechi's remarks underscore ongoing concerns about the balance of power among Nigeria's governmental branches and the importance of adhering to constitutional provisions to uphold democratic governance.