Most Rivers residents oppose state of emergency, call it unconstitutional – CJID survey
A new survey by the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID) reveals that 92.7% of residents in Rivers State are aware of and oppose the federal government’s declaration of a state of emergency. Many view it as unconstitutional and politically motivated.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declared the emergency on March 18, 2025, suspending the elected Governor, Siminilayi Fubara, and the State Assembly. They were replaced with a Sole Administrator—a move widely criticised as a threat to democratic governance.
The CJID survey, presented Tuesday in Abuja by Mboho Eno, Deputy Director of the Accountability Programme, found that 68.2% of respondents disapprove of the federal intervention, while 65% believe the suspension of elected officials is illegal. The report underscores growing public concern over executive overreach.
The survey polled 400 residents from diverse backgrounds—including youth, women, civil servants, business owners, and people from both rural and urban areas across Rivers State’s three senatorial districts. It found not only broad awareness but also strong disapproval of the federal action.
“A striking 92.7% of respondents said they were aware of the state of emergency and the suspension of democratic institutions in Rivers,” the report noted.
Despite the federal government’s justification citing security concerns, 86.7% of those surveyed said life in the state remains normal, with no significant disruptions. This contradicts the government’s rationale and raises doubts about the necessity of the emergency.
More than 75% of respondents said they were unaware of any plans or actions by the Sole Administrator, contributing to perceptions of a lack of transparency and democratic accountability.
Experts have warned that the move could set a dangerous precedent and potentially trigger a constitutional crisis. Unlike previous emergencies declared under Presidents Obasanjo and Jonathan—which involved serious violence—Rivers’ situation is largely political.
“This sentiment portrays a deep-rooted respect for electoral mandates and constitutional order among the Rivers populace,” CJID stated.
The report also warned that continued emergency rule could affect the 2027 general elections, risking voter suppression, reduced civil liberties, and manipulation of the electoral process in a state already known for electoral tensions.
Residents are calling for the restoration of elected leadership and a peaceful resolution to the crisis.
“By suspending an elected Governor and Assembly and replacing them with an unelected administrator, the Federal Government may be undermining the very democratic institutions it claims to protect,” the report concluded.
CJID will launch the full report via webinar on June 12, 2025. The event is open for public registration.
