Recently, a report surfaced claiming that former President Olusegun Obasanjo advised Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara to shut down the State House of Assembly and declare a state of emergency to quell the ongoing political crisis in the state.
The claim has sparked widespread debate, with some wondering whether Obasanjo truly issued such advice. However, a closer look at the Nigerian Constitution, political history, and Obasanjo’s democratic stance suggests that this claim is highly unlikely to be true.
In this article, we will examine the veracity of this report, explain why such an action is constitutionally impossible, and provide insights into the political crisis in Rivers State.
What the Report Claims
The viral news report alleges that during a private meeting at the Rivers State Government House in Port Harcourt, Obasanjo gave Governor Fubara the following advice:
- Shut down the Rivers State House of Assembly
- Declare a state of emergency in the state if necessary
- Withdraw security details from lawmakers
- Dismantle political opposition groups
- Prevent any impeachment attempts against him
The report also claims that Obasanjo told Fubara:
“You are the governor, chosen by the people. You hold the position of Chief Security Officer in Rivers State. Your directives must stand—neither Tinubu nor Wike placed you in power.”
However, a fact-checking analysis of this claim raises serious doubts about its authenticity.
Why the Claim is Likely False
1. The Governor Has No Power to Shut Down the State Assembly
Under Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution (as amended), a governor cannot dissolve the State House of Assembly at will. The separation of powers doctrine ensures that the executive, legislature, and judiciary function independently.
- Sections 90–129 of the Constitution establish the State House of Assembly as an autonomous body.
- Even if a political crisis arises, only a legal process (such as a court ruling) can suspend the Assembly’s operations.
- The governor has no constitutional power to dismiss lawmakers or prevent them from performing their duties.
If Fubara were to act on such advice, it would be a clear violation of Nigeria’s democratic principles and could trigger a legal battle.
2. Only the President Can Declare a State of Emergency
- Section 305 of the Constitution explicitly states that only the President of Nigeria (Bola Tinubu) has the authority to declare a state of emergency.
- For this to happen, the National Assembly (Senate and House of Representatives) must approve the declaration.
- A state of emergency does not dissolve the legislature or give the governor unchecked power.
Since Fubara lacks the constitutional power to declare a state of emergency, it is highly unlikely that Obasanjo would have advised him to do so.
3. Obasanjo’s Democratic Stance Contradicts the Alleged Advice
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has always positioned himself as a strong advocate for democracy and good governance.
- During his tenure as Nigeria’s president (1999–2007), Obasanjo dealt with multiple political crises but always followed constitutional procedures rather than authoritarian tactics.
- In previous state political disputes, he worked within the rule of law, relying on legal mechanisms rather than advising unconstitutional takeovers.
- Given his history of upholding democratic principles, it is highly unlikely that Obasanjo would suggest that Fubara violate constitutional laws.
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4. No Credible Source Has Confirmed the Report
- As of now, no official statement from Obasanjo, the Rivers State Government, or reputable news organizations has confirmed this claim.
- The Rivers State Government has not issued any directive to shut down the Assembly.
- This suggests that the story is based on unverified rumors and political speculation.
What is Really Happening in Rivers State?
The political tension in Rivers State is the result of a power struggle between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, who is now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Key Issues Behind the Crisis
- Power Struggle Between Fubara and Wike
- Wike played a key role in Fubara’s election, but their relationship quickly soured over control of the state’s political structure.
- Some lawmakers loyal to Wike attempted to impeach Fubara, escalating tensions.
- Defections and Political Realignments
- Several members of the Rivers State House of Assembly defected from the PDP to the APC, further complicating the crisis.
- Intervention by the Presidency
- President Bola Tinubu intervened in the dispute and brokered a peace deal between the warring factions.
- However, tensions persist, with reports of secret political maneuverings still ongoing.
What Could Happen Next?
Given the constitutional limitations, Governor Fubara cannot legally dissolve the Rivers State House of Assembly. However, the political conflict is far from over, and several outcomes remain possible:
1. Further Federal Government Intervention
- The presidency may need to step in again to prevent a full-blown crisis.
- Tinubu could broker a stronger peace deal to ensure governance stability.
2. Judicial Resolution
- The courts may be involved in resolving legal disputes over the Assembly’s legitimacy.
- Legal rulings could clarify the rights of lawmakers and prevent unconstitutional actions.
3. Political Negotiations
- Fubara may be forced to reconcile with Wike’s loyalists to maintain stability.
- The crisis could lead to political compromises rather than drastic actions.
Conclusion: The Claim is Likely False
Based on the available facts, the claim that Obasanjo advised Fubara to shut down the Rivers Assembly and declare a state of emergency appears to be false.
- The governor has no constitutional authority to dissolve the Assembly.
- Only the President can declare a state of emergency, not the governor.
- Obasanjo has always supported democratic governance, making it unlikely that he would advise unconstitutional actions.
- There is no official statement or credible report confirming the claim.
As the political situation in Rivers State unfolds, it is crucial for the public to rely on verified news sources rather than unconfirmed rumors.
FAQs
1. Can a Nigerian governor shut down a state house of assembly?
No. The 1999 Constitution of Nigeria guarantees legislative independence, meaning a governor cannot dissolve or shut down the State Assembly.
2. Can Governor Fubara declare a state of emergency in Rivers State?
No. Only the President of Nigeria can declare a state of emergency, and it must be approved by the National Assembly.
3. What is the main cause of the political crisis in Rivers State?
The crisis stems from a power struggle between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, over control of the state’s political structure.
4. Has Obasanjo made any official statement about the Rivers State crisis?
No. There is no official statement from Obasanjo confirming that he advised Fubara to shut down the Assembly.
5. What is the role of the federal government in resolving the crisis?
President Bola Tinubu has intervened in the crisis and brokered a peace deal. However, political tensions still persist.
Always verify information before accepting or spreading unconfirmed reports.
