Court Dismisses Emergency Powers Suit Against Tinubu for Fubara Suspension

A legal challenge aimed at President Bola Tinubu’s emergency intervention in Rivers State has been struck down by the Federal High Court in Port Harcourt.

The case, initiated by a civil society group, contested the legality of suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara and installing retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as the state’s Sole Administrator. Tinubu’s emergency declaration in March triggered a six-month suspension of Fubara, his deputy, and the entire state legislature.

The plaintiffs argued that the move violated Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution. However, Justice Muhammad Turaki dismissed the suit, stating that the group lacked the proper legal standing since Fubara himself was not involved in the litigation. He categorized the case as purely theoretical and declined to assess its substantive claims.

Following the ruling, the group’s legal counsel, Amegua Lezina, expressed disappointment and indicated they might appeal, emphasizing that the court sidestepped the core constitutional questions.

In a related development, the same organization’s separate lawsuit challenging the National Assembly’s endorsement of Ibas’ appointment has been postponed. The court scheduled judgment for January 23, 2026.