“There’s No Law Allowing a President to Suspend a Governor Says Falz

Nigerian rapper and activist Falz has strongly reacted to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s decision to suspend the governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, alongside his deputy and all members of the state’s House of Assembly, declaring a state of emergency in the region. In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on March 18, 2025, Falz criticized the move, calling it unconstitutional and raising concerns over its implications for Nigeria’s democratic system.

The decision, announced by President Tinubu during a nationwide broadcast on Tuesday, follows a prolonged political crisis in Rivers State. In his address, Tinubu invoked Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, arguing that the suspension of state officials and the declaration of a state of emergency were necessary to restore order and prevent further escalation of the crisis. The six-month suspension affects the governor, his deputy, and all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly.

Rivers State, there is ABSOLUTELY NO LAW that allows a president to SUSPEND a governor. A governor is elected into office and may only be removed by impeachment. Also, is Rivers state at war? Is there an “actual breakdown of public order”? Is there a threat to the existence of the federation? He wrote

However, Falz, a vocal advocate for political and social justice, condemned the action, stating that it undermines the constitutional framework of Nigeria. “This decision is unconstitutional and raises serious concerns about the respect for democracy and the rule of law,” Falz wrote, urging Nigerians to remain vigilant about potential threats to the country’s democratic processes.

The announcement has sparked widespread debate across Nigeria, with critics questioning the legality of the move and its potential to set a dangerous precedent for the centralization of power. Many are concerned about the broader implications of such a decision, particularly in terms of political stability and the preservation of democratic principles in the country.

As the situation develops, the public reaction to Tinubu’s decision is likely to intensify, with legal experts, political analysts, and activists such as Falz calling for a deeper examination of the constitutional and political ramifications.

“We cannot afford to let political instability threaten the peace and governance of Rivers State,” The President declared.