By Baba Adamu
A lawyer, Kenneth A. Amadi, Esq., has written to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, demanding the immediate withdrawal of armed forces and security personnel from the Rivers State Government House in Port Harcourt.
The demand comes on the heels of President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, which has been widely criticized as unconstitutional.
In a letter dated March 19, 2025, Amadi alleged that the armed forces have subjected Governor Fubara to illegal imprisonment at the Government House, in contravention of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999.
The lawyer cited a report by an online newspaper, which stated that “Heavily Armed Soldiers hold Fubara, Family Hostage at Rivers Governor House”. This report has sparked widespread outrage and concern for the safety and well-being of the Governor and his family.
Amadi requested the President’s immediate intervention, warning that failure to do so within two hours would result in litigation to press home their demands. The lawyer argued that the fundamental rights of the staff of the Rivers State Government House and the Governor, whom they elected, are being impeded without compliance with a valid order of court.
The declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State has been met with fierce resistance from various quarters, with many arguing that it is an attempt to usurp the powers of the Governor and undermine the democratic process.
This development has raised tensions in the state, with many fearing for the safety and stability of the region. The international community has also been watching the situation closely, with many calling for restraint and respect for democratic principles.
As the situation continues to unfold, one thing is clear: the people of Rivers State will not stand idly by while their democratic rights are trampled upon. The demand for the immediate withdrawal of armed forces from the Government House is just the beginning of what promises to be a long and contentious battle for the soul of Rivers State.