ACT NOW: Closing Window to Save Nigeria's Democracy

“Democracy transformed from thin paper to thick action is the greatest form of government on earth.”

Martin Luther King Jr.
(Civil Rights Activists)

Dear Active Citizen,

On Tuesday, March 18, President Tinubu declared a State of Emergency in Rivers State, removing Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy and the members of the State House of Assembly for six months. This isn't just about Rivers; it sets a dangerous precedent that could be repeated in any other state tomorrow.

We've seen this before. In 2004, President Obasanjo declared an emergency in Plateau State and removed Governor Dariye. Ironically, Tinubu (then Lagos Governor) strongly opposed this as an abuse of federal power. Even more telling: in 2013, Tinubu had criticised former President Goodluck Jonathan’s emergency rule in the Northeast, calling it a "dangerous trend" aimed at subverting democracy even though it did not include the removal of elected officials. Yet here we are in 2025, with Tinubu doing exactly what he once condemned.

The Constitutional Stakes
The 1999 Constitution (Section 305) allows the President to declare emergencies during security threats, but doesn't explicitly authorize removing elected officials. For this emergency rule to stand legally, the National Assembly must approve it within two days. Two-thirds of both chambers must vote in favor: in the House, 240 of 360 members, and in the Senate, 73 of 109 senators. Without these votes, the emergency rule is overturned

Where Things Stand Now
As of yesterday,  both chambers failed to debate the declaration due to low attendance. The Senate postponed to today, Thursday, while the House couldn't even form a quorum—suggesting potential rejection.

Why This Matters to You
If this succeeds in Rivers State, your state could be next. This moment is testing the strength of our democratic institutions, and we all have a role to play. Call your Representatives and Senators now. Ask them to protect our democracy by voting NO to the Rivers State emergency rule.

Find their contact details at shineyoureye.org and make your voice heard before it's too late.

This is a defining moment for Nigeria's democracy—stand up and be counted.

Have a great weekend!
The EiE Nigeria Team.