Nigerian rapper and activist Folarin Falana, better known as Falz, has strongly condemned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.
This development has led to the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and the entire state House of Assembly.
Taking to social media, Falz did not hold back his frustration, stating: “Rivers State, there is ABSOLUTELY NO LAW that allows a president to SUSPEND a governor. A Governor is elected into office and may only be removed by impeachment.”
His comments immediately ignited a firestorm of debate, with many Nigerians echoing his sentiments. Falz also questioned the reasoning behind the drastic political intervention, saying: “Also, is Rivers State at war? Is there an ‘actual breakdown of public order’? Is there a threat to the existence of the federation?”
The President’s decision, announced on March 18, 2025, was justified under Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, citing escalating security concerns and political unrest in Rivers State. As part of the emergency measures, Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd.) was appointed as the state’s interim administrator for the next six months.
Falz’s remarks have fueled a nationwide discussion about the constitutionality of Tinubu’s actions. Legal experts and political analysts warn that this sets a dangerous precedent for executive overreach, potentially undermining Nigeria’s democratic framework.
The crisis in Rivers State has been brewing for months, largely due to a fierce power struggle between Governor Fubara and factions loyal to former Governor Nyesom Wike. The tension escalated after the Supreme Court upheld the legitimacy of the Martin Amaewhule-led faction of the Rivers House of Assembly, worsening the divide between the legislative and executive branches of the state government.
As the situation unfolds, Nigerians are watching closely, with growing calls for constitutional integrity, political stability, and respect for the rule of law. Will this be a defining moment for Nigeria’s democracy, or a dangerous slide into authoritarian governance? Time will tell.
