President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State on March 18, 2025, citing breakdown in governance and public order, sparking nationwide outrage, especially on social media, reports REMMY NWEKE.
Breakdown in governance:
On March 18, 2025, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, citing a breakdown in governance and public order.
The move sent shockwaves across Nigeria, with many questioning the motivations behind the president's decision.
Supreme Court in the midst of power struggle:
At the heart of the crisis lies a bitter power struggle between Governor Simi Fubara and 27 members of the House of Assembly, led by Martins Amaewhule. The lawmakers, allegedly loyal to former Governor Nyesom Wike, now Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, sought to impeach Fubara in December 2023.
The situation escalated, with the Supreme Court delivering a judgment in February 2025 that blamed Fubara for the disagreements in the state. Rather than calming tensions, the ruling ignited anger among stakeholders in Rivers State, who saw Fubara as a victim of high-stakes politics.
As the crisis unfolded, social media platforms played a significant role in shaping public opinion and mobilizing support for the embattled governor.
The move sent shockwaves across Nigeria, with many questioning the motivations behind the president's decision.
Supreme Court in the midst of power struggle:
At the heart of the crisis lies a bitter power struggle between Governor Simi Fubara and 27 members of the House of Assembly, led by Martins Amaewhule. The lawmakers, allegedly loyal to former Governor Nyesom Wike, now Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, sought to impeach Fubara in December 2023.
The situation escalated, with the Supreme Court delivering a judgment in February 2025 that blamed Fubara for the disagreements in the state. Rather than calming tensions, the ruling ignited anger among stakeholders in Rivers State, who saw Fubara as a victim of high-stakes politics.
As the crisis unfolded, social media platforms played a significant role in shaping public opinion and mobilizing support for the embattled governor.
Hashtags like #SaveRiversState and #FubaraMustStay trended on Twitter, with many Nigerians expressing outrage over the president's decision to declare a state of emergency.
History of States of Emergency in Nigeria:
This is not the first time a state of emergency has been declared in Nigeria. Previous instances included Plateau State in 2004, Ekiti State in 2006, and Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa States in 2013.
Lastly, the people of Rivers State will be watching closely to see how the situation unfolds, and whether the president's decision will bring stability and peace to the state.
History of States of Emergency in Nigeria:
This is not the first time a state of emergency has been declared in Nigeria. Previous instances included Plateau State in 2004, Ekiti State in 2006, and Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa States in 2013.
However, the current situation in Rivers State is unique, with many arguing that the president's actions are politically motivated, while others blamed Gov. Fubara for purported ill-advised political toga brawl.
Under Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, the president can declare a state of emergency in cases of war, imminent danger of war, breakdown of public order and safety, or natural disasters. However, the declaration must be approved by the National Assembly within a specified timeframe.
Implications of a State of Emergency:
The declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State has significant implications for the state's governance, economy, and residents.
Implications of a State of Emergency:
The declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State has significant implications for the state's governance, economy, and residents.
The federal government has assumed control of the state, suspending the executive and legislative arms. A sole administrator with military background has been appointed to oversee the state's affairs, and certain fundamental rights, such as freedom of movement and assembly, may be restricted.
The economic impact of the state of emergency is also a concern, with businesses and economic activities potentially disrupted due to potential curfews, restrictions, or heightened security measures.
The role of social media:
Social media has played a crucial role in shaping public opinion and mobilizing support for Governor Fubara. Notable is that platforms like Twitter now X, Facebook, and Instagram have provided a space for Nigerians to express their outrage and frustration over the president's decision.
Hashtags like #RiversStateOfEmergency and #TinubuMustGo have trended on X, with many Nigerians calling for the president to reverse his decision.
The economic impact of the state of emergency is also a concern, with businesses and economic activities potentially disrupted due to potential curfews, restrictions, or heightened security measures.
The role of social media:
Social media has played a crucial role in shaping public opinion and mobilizing support for Governor Fubara. Notable is that platforms like Twitter now X, Facebook, and Instagram have provided a space for Nigerians to express their outrage and frustration over the president's decision.
Hashtags like #RiversStateOfEmergency and #TinubuMustGo have trended on X, with many Nigerians calling for the president to reverse his decision.
Also, social media influencers and celebrities have since weighed in on the issue, using their platforms to raise awareness and mobilize support for the people of Rivers State.
Conclusion:
The declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State is a complex issue, with far-reaching implications for the state's governance, economy, and residents.
Conclusion:
The declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State is a complex issue, with far-reaching implications for the state's governance, economy, and residents.
As the situation continues to unfold, social media will likely play a significant role in shaping public opinion and mobilizing support for Governor Fubara or otherwise.
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Lastly, the people of Rivers State will be watching closely to see how the situation unfolds, and whether the president's decision will bring stability and peace to the state.
One thing is certain, however: the role of social media in shaping public opinion and mobilizing support will be a crucial factor in the days and weeks to come.
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