By Okey Ikejieze, Abuja
The Global Igbo Leaders (GIL), a coalition of leaders from established Igbo organizations across the globe, has expressed deep concern over the recent political upheaval in Rivers State, Nigeria. As a non-political, non-religious body committed to the promotion and protection of democratic values, GIL stands firmly with the people and government of Rivers State in resisting actions that undermine constitutional governance.
The organization strongly condemns the reported suspension of the duly elected Governor of Rivers State and the alleged imposition of a sole administrator through means deemed unconstitutional. Such maneuvers, GIL warns, amount to a blatant subversion of democratic processes and mirror the very autocratic tendencies that the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership, has consistently opposed in the region.
GIL further questioned the legality of the legislative procedure allegedly employed—a mere voice vote—stating it falls short of the constitutional two-thirds majority requirement to declare a state of emergency. This procedural failure not only invalidates the action but sets a dangerous precedent for democratic governance in Nigeria.
The group also highlighted a disturbing inconsistency: while regions like Plateau, Benue, and parts of the Southwest continue to experience serious security and humanitarian crises without any federal declaration of emergency, the relatively stable Rivers State has been singled out. This, GIL argues, raises legitimate concerns about political bias, regional targeting, and selective enforcement of constitutional powers.
In alignment with the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO), Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), and other civil society groups, GIL calls for the immediate reversal of any unconstitutional measures in Rivers State. The fundamental right of citizens to choose and be governed by their elected representatives must be upheld. Any erosion of this principle anywhere in Nigeria is an affront to the democratic aspirations of all Nigerians.
Echoing the NBA’s stance, GIL insists that political disagreements or executive-legislative tensions must be resolved through constitutional channelsparticularly the judiciary, and not through executive overreach or legislative manipulation.
GIL urges all political actors and institutions to respect the rule of law, prioritize democratic norms, and wait for the next electoral cycle if there is any desire for leadership change. Any attempt to circumvent elections in order to alter political leadership constitutes a direct assault on Nigeria’s democracy and must be firmly rejected by all Nigerians of conscience.
Signed:
Salvation Amadi – Secretary
Amadiebube Mbama – Coordinator
Global Igbo Leaders (GIL)
May 13, 2025.
