Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has called on political leaders in Rivers State to draw lessons from the recently suspended six-month emergency rule, stressing that the intervention harmed Nigeria’s democracy.

Obi, in a statement on his official X handle on Thursday, urged Governor Siminalayi Fubara, lawmakers, and other political “gladiators” in the state to acknowledge past mistakes, embrace peace, and work toward reconciliation.

Background of the Emergency Rule

President Bola Tinubu had declared a state of emergency in Rivers State on March 18, 2025, suspending Governor Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Odu, and appointing Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Bias (retd.) as the state’s Sole Administrator. The decision, made under Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, lasted six months.

On Wednesday, Tinubu announced the suspension of the emergency rule, citing “a groundswell of a new spirit of understanding” from intelligence reports.

Obi’s Position

Obi described the intervention as a constitutional breach, arguing that emergency powers should only be invoked in cases of serious threats to public safety or national security. He emphasized that political instability in Rivers should never have escalated to a level that warranted federal intervention.

“The Rivers State episode offers valuable lessons for political gladiators. Leaders must prioritize dialogue, unity, and the democratic process above selfish interests,” Obi said.

Calls for Peace and Reconciliation

The former Anambra Governor maintained that Rivers leaders must now put aside divisions and work together for the greater good of the state and Nigeria’s democracy.