President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has emphasized that the judiciary in the state would remain fully operational and unaffected by the decree. The President’s assurance came as part of measures to ensure that the rule of law and constitutional governance are upheld during the period of emergency.
President Tinubu, in his address outlined the reasons for the declaration, citing the prolonged political crisis, collapse of the legislative arm, and deteriorating security situation in Rivers State. However, he made it clear that the emergency measures were targeted at restoring executive and legislative functions, while the judicial arm would continue to operate independently in line with its constitutional mandate.
“For the avoidance of doubt, this declaration does not affect the judicial arm of Rivers State, which shall continue to function in accordance with their constitutional mandate,” President Tinubu stated.
This clarification is significant, as it underscores the government’s commitment to preserving the separation of powers and ensuring that the judiciary remains a pillar of justice and accountability during this critical period. The judiciary’s continued operation is expected to provide a legal framework for addressing disputes and maintaining order, even as the Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok Ete Ibas (Rtd), takes charge of the state’s executive functions.
The President’s decision to exempt the judiciary from the state of emergency has been widely welcomed by legal experts and civil society organizations. They have praised the move as a necessary step to safeguard the independence of the judiciary and prevent any erosion of democratic principles.
“The judiciary is the last hope of the common man, and its independence is crucial for the survival of democracy,” said a prominent human rights lawyer. “By ensuring that the judiciary remains unaffected, President Tinubu has demonstrated a commitment to upholding the rule of law, even in the face of a political crisis.”
The declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State followed a Supreme Court judgment that condemned the unconstitutional actions of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, including the demolition of the State House of Assembly and the collapse of legislative functions. The court had ruled that the absence of a functional legislature rendered the state government incomplete and unconstitutional.
While the executive and legislative arms of the state government have been suspended for an initial period of six months, the judiciary’s continued operation is expected to provide stability and ensure that justice is administered without interference.
