By: Joy Musa
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has strongly criticised the recent developments in Rivers State, condemning what it described as a blatant disregard for the rule of law by the sole administrator currently overseeing the affairs of the state. In a strongly worded statement issued on Wednesday, the NBA expressed deep concern over the unconstitutional removal of duly elected officials, including Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
According to the NBA, the current situation represents a dangerous departure from democratic norms and threatens the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic institutions. The association urged the immediate reinstatement of Governor Fubara and all other democratically elected officials, asserting that their removal undermines the will of the people who elected them.
“The mandate of the people must not be swept aside under any guise,” the statement read. “We are witnessing a worrying trend where legal and constitutional processes are being circumvented, and the principles of democracy trampled upon. The rule of law must prevail.”
The NBA stressed that any transition of power or changes in the state’s leadership must be carried out strictly in line with constitutional provisions. It warned that continued disregard for due process could deepen political instability and erode public confidence in democratic governance.
In its call to action, the association urged all stakeholders, including the federal government, security agencies, and the judiciary, to intervene and ensure the restoration of constitutional order in Rivers State.
The NBA also reiterated its commitment to defending the rule of law, adding that it will not hesitate to take legal action should the situation persist.
The crisis in Rivers State has attracted nationwide attention, with civil society groups and political commentators also expressing alarm over what many see as a dangerous precedent. As tensions continue to rise, all eyes are on the authorities to resolve the impasse and restore the democratic structure in the state.
