To: The President of the Senate, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Distinguished Senators and Representatives of the Federal Republic of Nigeria

Concerned Nigerian citizens write to formally petition the Senate to reject the unconstitutional and undemocratic imposition of emergency rule in Rivers State. We urge you to stand on the side of the Constitution, the rule of law, and democracy by voting NO to the illegal removal of elected officials in Rivers State.

A Threat to Democracy and Federalism
On Tuesday, March 17, 2025, The President declared a State of Emergency in Rivers State and illegally removed the Governor, his deputy, and the State House of Assembly for six months. This is a grave assault on Nigeria’s federalism and an overreach of executive powers that must not be allowed to stand.

This is not just about Rivers State, if this is allowed, no state is safe. A dangerous precedent is being set that could allow future presidents to remove elected state governors at will, undermining the democratic rights of Nigerian citizens.

The Constitutional Violation
The 1999 Constitution (Section 305) allows the President to declare a state of emergency only in security threats, but it does not authorise the removal of elected officials.

For this emergency rule to stand, the National Assembly must approve it within two days by a two-thirds majority:

- 73 of 109 senators must vote in favor.

- 240 of 360 House members must vote in favor.

As of yesterday, the Senate postponed the debate due to low attendance, and the House of Representatives couldn’t even form a quorum, indicating that many lawmakers see this for what it is: an unconstitutional exercise.

Our Demand: Uphold the Constitution, Reject Tyranny
We call on all Federal Republic of Nigeria Senators to vote NO to the unconstitutional state of emergency in Rivers State.

We remind you that your role as lawmakers is to uphold the Constitution, defend democracy, and protect the sovereignty of Nigeria’s federal system. By approving this illegal act, you would enable a dangerous precedent where the President can arbitrarily remove any governor or legislature in any state.

Call for Transparency: Publish the Votes
We also call on the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives to publish the names of those who voted for and against this emergency rule. Nigerians deserve full transparency on how their representatives decide on this crucial issue.

Accountability Will Prevail
The Nigerian people are watching. Any Senator or Representative who supports this unconstitutional move will be held accountable by their constituents. We will track their votes, mobilise civic engagement, and ensure that Nigerians remember those who stood against democracy.

To the Nigerian People: Your Voice Matters
This is not just about Rivers State. It is about the future of democracy in Nigeria. Call your Senators and Representatives. Demand that they defend democracy by rejecting this unconstitutional state of emergency.

The power of the people is more significant than any political manoeuvring. If we allow this to stand, we risk losing democracy itself.

Signed:
Concerned Citizens

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