Bonny Development Forum Calls for Immediate Restoration of Democratic Governance in Rivers State

BONNY/Nigeria: The Bonny Development Forum (BDF) has condemned the recent state of emergency declared in Rivers State and the actions of the Sole Administrator, retired Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas. In a press release, the group called on President Bola Tinubu and the National Assembly to urgently reverse these undemocratic measures and restore the elected leadership of Governor Sim Fubara.

In a statement signed by BDF President Gift Alex Hart and Secretary Patrick Jene Iwari, the group expressed grave concern over the constitutional violations and the damaging effects of the state of emergency, which was declared by President Tinubu on March 18, 2025. The BDF noted that the emergency declaration, which dismantled democratic structures in Rivers State, lacked any legitimate security justification and had led to an increase in the centralization of power, along with restrictions on civil liberties such as free speech and movement.

“The state of emergency was declared without a valid reason, and the subsequent actions of the Sole Administrator have only deepened the crisis,” they stated.

The statement  further criticized the National Assembly for approving the emergency rule through a voice vote, rather than a transparent headcount, arguing that the decision did not meet constitutional thresholds.

The BDF pointed to the Sole Administrator’s actions, including the dismissal of appointed officials, the unconstitutional release of state funds, and the creation of new executive structures without legal backing. The group also called attention to the Sole Administrator’s disregard for Supreme Court orders, particularly in the suspension of local government elections and the appointment of officials aligned with former Governor Nyesom Wike.

“The appointment of the Sole Administrator and his actions have only served to undermine democratic principles in Rivers State. Rather than promote peace, they have fueled political instability and increased public distrust in the government,”‘.

The Bonny Development Forum is calling for the immediate reinstatement of Governor Sim Fubara and the restoration of democratic governance in Rivers State. The group warned that failure to act could lead to further unrest and prompt the people of Rivers State to take matters into their own hands.

“We demand the restoration of constitutional order and a return to democratic leadership in Rivers State. The people of the state deserve better than this authoritarian rule,” the BDF concluded.

The group’s call to action underscores the need for the Nigerian government to uphold democratic values and the rule of law for the benefit of Rivers State and its people.