Hundreds of public interest lawyers rallied in Abuja, urging the United States to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s declaration of emergency rule in Rivers State. The peaceful march to the American embassy highlighted the president’s use of constitutional powers under Section 305 to intervene in what they described as a deteriorating crisis in the state.
Led by Mr. Beeior Orpin, the group presented a petition to the U.S. Ambassador, stressing that Tinubu’s actions were necessary to address the alleged tyranny of Rivers State’s suspended governor, Siminilayi Fubara. They accused Fubara of demolishing the legislative arm of government, plunging the state into chaos, and endangering democracy. Placards carried by the lawyers bore messages supporting the emergency rule, emphasizing its legality and constitutional backing.
Citing a scathing Supreme Court judgment labeling Fubara a despot, the lawyers expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for restoring order. They emphasized that Nigeria, as a constitutional democracy, shares values with the United States and urged U.S. backing to uphold these principles.
Ms. Sandra Ezeoke, one of the advocates, explained their move to involve the U.S., stating that misconceptions surrounded the president’s decision. She pointed out that the emergency proclamation remains valid until overturned by the courts and criticized public interference in ongoing legal matters. Ezeoke emphasized Nigeria’s reliance on democratic principles from the U.S., urging support as the nation navigates this critical issue.
