A coalition of Civil Society Organizations under the auspices of Centre for Credible Leadership and Citizens Awareness (CCLCA) has thrown their weights behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.

Recall that on Tuesday 18th March, 2025, President Tinubu invoked a provision of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 as amended, to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State following months of unending political crisis in the state.

Just on Thursday, the both arms of the National Assembly – the Senate and House of Representatives endorsed the President’s proclamation of a state of emergency in Rivers, with some further amendments.

Following suit, the CCLCA has strongly supported President Tinubu, stressing that his decision to declare a state of emergency in River State was guided by the provisions of the Constitution.

Addressing journalists in Abuja on Friday, the National Coordinator of the group, Dr. Nwambu Gabriel, emphasized that Mr President’s decision reflects a sober and constitutional response to a pressing political situation that demands immediate intervention for the restoration of order, peace, and effective governance.

“Ladies and gentlemen of the press, esteemed and dedicated Nigerian citizens,

Today, the Coalition of Civil Society Organizations, committed to advocating for good governance and credible leadership, convened to express our support for the recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“As a civil right coalition, we stand in affirmation of the recent actions taken by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as well as the resolutions passed by both the Senate and the House of Representatives concerning the state of emergency in Rivers State.

“The prolonged political turmoil between the executive and legislative arms of government in Rivers State has led to a governance crisis that requires immediate and decisive action. We commend President Tinubu for his bold declaration of a state of emergency aimed at restoring order and ensuring effective governance”, he said.

Justifying the President’s action, Dr. Gabriel explained that he (Tinubu) has acted within his constitutional rights and obligations, adding that Section 305 of the Constitution allows for the declaration of a state of emergency in situations where the government is unable to maintain order or ensure good governance.

“The chaotic political environment in Rivers State necessitated such an extraordinary measure”, he asserted.

According to him, the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly is a necessary step to facilitate this process.

The group also fully supported the Senate’s resolution to invoke Section 11 of Section 4 of the Nigerian Constitution, empowering the National Assembly to establish a Joint Advisory Committee to oversee the administration of Rivers State during this period.

The National Coordinator said the oversight is crucial for ensuring that the interests of the citizens are maintained and that stability is restored.

“We also welcome the Senate’s suggestion to form a committee of eminent Nigerians tasked with reconciling the conflicting parties within the government of Rivers State. Such an initiative is essential not only for immediate resolution of the ongoing crisis but also for fostering a more collaborative and effective governance structure in the future.

“The House of Representatives’ affirmation of the state of emergency further reinforces the consensus on the need for urgent intervention. We believe that these measures are in the best interest of the people of Rivers State and Nigeria as a whole”, he added.

Dr. Gabriel however urged all stakeholders to contribute to a peaceful and productive resolution of the crisis, saying it’s only through collective action and dialogue that we can restore hope and trust in governance.