Why Fubara May Lose His Governorship Seat Despite Lifting of Suspension
Ngige explained that the state of emergency declared in Rivers—which Fubara, alongside 11 state governments, has challenged in court—remains unresolved because the matter has yet to be heard
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Why Fubara May Lose His Governorship Seat Despite Lifting of Suspension
Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State may still face the risk of losing his governorship position despite the lifting of his suspension, according to Chief Emeka Ngige (SAN), Chairman of the Council of Legal Education (CLE).
Speaking during a live coverage on Symfoni, Ngige warned that unless the Supreme Court urgently hears the pending case on the Rivers political crisis before September 18, the governor could suffer a similar fate as former Plateau State governor, Joshua Dariye, during the administration of President Olusegun Obasanjo.
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Ngige explained that the state of emergency declared in Rivers—which Fubara, alongside 11 state governments, has challenged in court—remains unresolved because the matter has yet to be heard. He stressed that the federal government has already filed its defense, questioning why the apex court has not taken up the case.
“The Supreme Court should, as a matter of urgency, whether they are on vacation or not, hear that matter immediately. The state of emergency will expire on September 18,” Ngige cautioned.
Drawing parallels with the Plateau case, Ngige recalled how Dariye’s legal challenge against his suspension was rendered “academic” after the emergency rule in the state lapsed. “By the time the matter was listed, the plaintiffs were met with preliminary objection that the case had become academic. Even though the Supreme Court overruled the objection on other grounds, the suit was eventually struck out because the Attorney General of the Federation was not joined,” he said.
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Ngige emphasized that while he was not interested in predicting the outcome of the Rivers case, the apex court must avoid a repeat of the Plateau scenario by ensuring that the matter is decided on its merits before the expiration date.
The development adds another layer of uncertainty to Rivers politics, as Fubara continues to navigate legal and political battles threatening his stay in office.
