Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, has expressed support for President Bola Tinubu's recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, which led to the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the state's House of Assembly for six months.
Fagbemi emphasized that this decisive action was necessary to uphold national economic interests, particularly concerning the oil sector. He highlighted that any disruption in oil production adversely affects all Nigerians, stating, "In today's Nigeria, for anyone to touch these pipelines, it's not only the enemy of Rivers, it's the enemy of Nigeria. All Nigerians, all the 36 states share in what comes in from the production of this oil."
The Minister also referenced a Supreme Court judgment from February 28, 2025, which found Governor Fubara guilty of constitutional breaches and described his leadership as despotic. Fagbemi noted that, given the gravity of the Supreme Court's findings, it would have been irresponsible for the federal government to remain passive. He asserted that the President's intervention was both bold and necessary to restore order and uphold the rule of law in Rivers State.
Addressing concerns about the legality of suspending an elected governor, Fagbemi clarified that the National Assembly holds the final authority on the suspension. He emphasized that the suspension must be ratified with a two-thirds majority for it to stand, stating, "The ball is now in the court of the National Assembly. If they do not ratify it, the suspensions will not stand."
Fagbemi further explained that the declaration of a state of emergency served as a compromise to prevent the outright impeachment of the governor and his deputy. He noted that, had the impeachment process proceeded, both officials would have been entirely removed from office for the remainder of their terms. This approach allows for the possibility of their return if normalcy is restored within the stipulated period.
The Attorney General underscored the broader implications of the situation, warning that the current events in Rivers State should serve as a cautionary tale. He stated, "It is Rivers State's turn today; it can be anybody's turn tomorrow. Let the signal be clearly sent for those who want to foment trouble to think twice."
In conclusion, Fagbemi reiterated that the federal government's actions were driven by a commitment to maintain national stability, uphold constitutional order, and ensure the continuous flow of oil revenues vital to the country's economy.
Gov. Fubara Had Long Anticipated a Possible Impeachment
— ARISE NEWS (@ARISEtv) March 19, 2025
He knew the House of Assembly was crucial to that process, which is why he dismantled it. Fourteen months later, there has been no effort to rebuild it.
Attorney General & Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi pic.twitter.com/Kcsnc4mxo0
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