WAFFI TV | Feature

Lawyers Urge Tinubu To Reverse Rivers Emergency Or Face Legal Action

The Association of Legislative Drafting and Advocacy Practitioners (ALDRAP) has called on President Bola Tinubu to immediately revoke the state of emergency declared in Rivers State, warning of possible legal action if he fails to do so. The lawyers’ group also threatened to sue the President over reports that Governor Sim Fubara and his family are allegedly being held hostage by soldiers and other security operatives at the Rivers State Government House. Waffi TV reports that Tinubu announced the state of emergency during a nationwide broadcast on Tuesday night. Justifying the decision, the President said he was “greatly disturbed about the political crisis” in the state and accused Governor Fubara of demolishing the State House of Assembly building. Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly were suspended for an initial period of six months. A retired Vice Admiral, Ibok-Ete Ibas, was appointed as Administrator to take charge of the state’s affairs during the emergency period. Tinubu has come under fire from several quarters, with many Nigerians questioning the legality and propriety of the decision. In a letter dated March 19, 2025, and addressed to President Bola Tinubu, the Association of Legislative Drafting and Advocacy Practitioners (ALDRAP) informed him of its plan to seek a court order compelling him to withdraw the Gazette used to declare a state of emergency in the oil-rich state. The letter, written by ALDRAP’s lawyer, Kenneth Amadi, argued that the President’s declaration violated several provisions of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The letter is titled: ‘Pre-Action Notice: Application for an Order of Mandamus to compel your retraction of the Gazette dated 18th March 2025 on the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State on grounds of failure to append a resolution of the National Assembly in support thereof, and the lack of evidence of absence of governance in Rivers State in accordance with the Freedom of Information Act, 2011’. Parts of the letter read: “The Association of Legislative Drafting and Advocacy Practitioners (ALDRAP) is a professional association of lawyers who are staff of the National Assembly and other legislatures within Nigeria and beyond. “We write this PRE-ACTION NOTICE to respectfully request your retraction of the Gazette dated 18th March 2025, where you purportedly declared and imposed a state of emergency upon Rivers State. “Take notice that in the event of your failure to retract or recall the said Gazette, we shall commence legal steps at either the National Industrial Court of Nigeria, the State High Court, or the Federal High Court to press home our demands. “This PRE-ACTION NOTICE is based upon the fact that your proclamation of the said state of emergency is in violation of various sections of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, and other relevant laws, as follows: 1. Violation of Section 42 of the Nigerian Constitution by preventing our members, who are both staff of the Rivers State House of Assembly and the Rivers State Government House (including other officials of the Executive Arm of the Rivers State Government such as Commissioners and the Office of the Secretary to the Rivers State Government), from being involved in gainful employment to earn money for property acquisition through mortgage, etc. 2. The said Gazette dated 18th March 2025, which purports to appoint a Sole Administrator, is a direct violation of Section 1(2) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, which states: ‘The Federal Republic of Nigeria shall not be governed, nor shall any person or group of persons take control of the Government of Nigeria or any part thereof, except in accordance with the provisions of this Constitution.’ 3. There is no resolution of the National Assembly in support of the said Gazette as stipulated under Section 305 of the Nigerian Constitution. 4. There is no prima facie evidence of failure on the part of the Governor of Rivers State in performing his duties since the Supreme Court of Nigeria’s judgment dated February 28, 2025. “This PRE-ACTION NOTICE is brought pursuant to the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act, 2011, which entitles our association (ALDRAP) to access evidence of dereliction of duty by the Governor of Rivers State—a condition precedent before the publication of a Gazette under Section 305 of the Nigerian Constitution.” In another letter, also dated March 19, 2025, the lawyers asked the President to order the immediate removal of soldiers and other security personnel alleged to be subjecting Fubara to illegal imprisonment at the Rivers State Government House in Port Harcourt. The second letter is titled: ‘Request for urgent intervention to order the immediate withdrawal of the Armed Forces and other security personnel that are subjecting His Excellency Governor Fubara to illegal imprisonment at the Government House, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, in contravention of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999.’ Citing reports that Fubara and his family are being held hostage by heavily armed soldiers and other security agents, the group told the President: “We respectfully request your immediate intervention by way of the immediate withdrawal of the said armed forces and security personnel.” The letter added: “Take notice that, as constituents, and as some of us are staff of the Rivers State Government House, the fundamental rights of the said staff and the Governor of Rivers State, whom we elected, are being impeded without compliance with a valid court order. “Therefore, we shall undertake litigation to press home our demands if you fail to intervene within two hours of this letter.”

3/19/2025, 11:21:56 AM

NBA Blasts Tinubu, Condemns Suspension Of Fubara

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has strongly condemned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State and the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and state lawmakers. In a March 18, 2025, statement, NBA President Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, asserted that the President lacks the constitutional authority to unilaterally remove elected officials under the pretext of emergency rule. Tinubu, in a national address, justified his actions by citing escalating political tensions and recent pipeline vandalism. However, the NBA countered that such concerns do not meet the constitutional requirements for suspending an elected government. Referencing Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, the NBA noted that while the President can declare an emergency, it does not grant him the power to remove elected leaders. The association emphasized that impeachment under Section 188 is the only lawful process for removing a governor or deputy, while lawmakers’ removal must follow electoral laws and constitutional guidelines. The NBA further stressed that an emergency declaration does not dissolve an elected government and warned against executive overreach. Additionally, it pointed out that Tinubu’s proclamation requires National Assembly approval within two days if in session, or ten days if not, making it legally ineffective until ratified. Condemning the move as a “dangerous affront” to democracy, the NBA warned that allowing the suspension of elected officials under emergency rule could set a precedent for removing state governments based on political considerations. It urged the National Assembly to reject any attempt to ratify the unconstitutional suspension of Rivers State officials. The NBA urged all stakeholders, including the judiciary, civil society, and international observers, to closely monitor the situation. It reaffirmed its dedication to safeguarding Nigeria’s democracy and called on the federal government to address political disputes through constitutional and legal means rather than executive directives. The association emphasized the need to protect Nigeria’s democratic system, warning that any unconstitutional interference in state governance poses a serious threat to the country’s stability.

3/19/2025, 6:49:35 AM

Reps To Probe SON Over Substandard Building Materials

The House of Representatives on Tuesday resolved to investigate allegations that the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) reversed its decision to shut down 18 companies involved in the production and distribution of substandard building materials, particularly iron rods. The resolution followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Edo lawmaker Billy Osawaru of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Osawaru urged the House to compel SON to intensify efforts in eliminating fake building materials from the Nigerian market and ensure only quality products are available nationwide. Expressing concern over frequent building collapses in Nigeria, Osawaru attributed the issue to the use of substandard materials, weak regulatory enforcement, and poor construction practices. Citing data from the Building Collapse Prevention Guild, he noted that Nigeria recorded 47 building collapses across 14 states in 2024, with Lagos State accounting for 56% (13 incidents) and Abuja recording 6 collapses (4.37%). He lamented that substandard materials have led to numerous fatalities, adding that at least three buildings have collapsed in different states since January 2025, resulting in multiple deaths and casualties. “This is a clear indication that the Standard Organization of Nigeria has not done enough to prevent further occurrences. “Study has revealed that poor quality of materials and cheap labour contributed about 53 per cent of building collapse in Nigeria with most of them being private residential buildings executed by indigenous companies and locals. “SON allegedly reversed its decision to shut down 18 companies implicated in the production and distribution of substandard building materials, particularly iron rod manufacturers. “The reversal, reportedly influenced by the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment has sparked criticism from different quarters, raising concern over the government’s commitment to enforcing quality standards in the construction industry. “The alleged defaulted companies responsible for production of substandard building materials especially irons hides under the weak enforcement mechanisms in Nigeria to flood the Nigerian market with inferior products while exporting products of high quality to countries where substandard materials are not tolerated,” he said. Following the adoption of the motion, the House resolved to investigate the organisation and make useful recommendations on how to tackle the scourge of substandard building materials in the country.

3/18/2025, 5:10:31 PM

Rivers Civil Servants Threaten Mass Protest Over Budget Delay

A coalition of concerned civil servants in Rivers State, along with the Rivers Solidarity for Good Governance, has issued a firm ultimatum to the state House of Assembly, demanding it receive the 2025 budget from the executive branch by Wednesday, March 19, 2025. The groups condemned what they described as "reckless inaction and obstruction of governance," warning of mass resistance if their demands were not met. Speaking at a media briefing in Port Harcourt on Tuesday, the civil servants, led by Opu-Oyibo Lilly-West, criticized the Assembly for repeatedly delaying the budget's receipt, arguing that the inaction has plunged thousands of workers, traders, and residents into economic uncertainty. “Your blatant disregard for the urgent needs of our state has placed critical contracts and salaries at risk. “By choosing spectacle over service, you have endangered the future of our public institutions and betrayed the trust of every citizen who depends on a stable, functioning government,” Lilly-West said. The groups demanded that the budget be submitted without further delay and be fully presented before the Assembly by March 19, 2025, as requested for in the letter written by Governor Siminalayi Fubara. They described their demand as “a command backed by the righteous fury of thousands of civil servants, their families, and the broader community.” The coalition warned that failure to comply would result in large-scale protests, emphasising that they would not tolerate any further delay or political maneuvering. “The tide of resistance will be unstoppable,” the groups declared. “The collective might of the civil service and the distressed voices of our people will rise in defiant protest against this gross negligence. This is not a threat—it is a promise of action.” Calling for an end to what they described as “empty rhetoric,” the groups urged the state assembly to abandon “farcical games” and fulfill its obligations.

3/18/2025, 5:03:33 PM

Bill Mandating Facebook, Bloggers, Others To Have Offices In Nigeria Passes Second Reading

The Senate has passed the second reading of a bill seeking to amend the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023, to require social media platforms to establish physical offices within the country. Sponsored by Senator Ned Nwoko (Delta North), the bill—titled *A Bill for an Act to Amend the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023, to Mandate the Establishment of Physical Offices within the Territorial Boundaries of the Federal Republic of Nigeria by Social Media Platforms, and for Related Matters, 2025 (SB. 650)*—aims to enhance local representation and regulatory compliance. Leading the debate, Senator Nwoko emphasized Nigeria’s significant digital presence, ranking first in Africa and second globally in social media usage, with citizens spending an average of three hours and 46 minutes online daily, according to a Global Web Index report cited by *Business Insider Africa*. Despite this high engagement, he noted that major social media platforms like Facebook, X, Instagram, WhatsApp, YouTube, TikTok, and Snapchat do not maintain physical offices in Nigeria, unlike in other countries. He outlined the challenges posed by this absence, including economic losses, limited local representation, and difficulties in legal and data protection compliance. The bill also introduces new regulations for bloggers in Nigeria, requiring them to: – Establish a verifiable office in any of the country’s capital cities. – Maintain proper employee records. – Belong to a recognized national bloggers' association headquartered in Abuja. Senator Nwoko argued that these measures would promote accountability, transparency, and professionalism in Nigeria’s digital media space, aligning it with traditional media standards. He stressed that the bill is not an attack on social media companies but a call for equity and recognition of Nigeria’s global digital influence. Senate President Godswill Akpabio acknowledged the benefits of local offices for digital platforms but noted that the regulation of bloggers requires careful consideration. He stated: ‘It’s good to have an address, but bloggers are slightly different. I think the best thing is for the bill to go for a second reading and subsequently public hearing for much more streamlined clarity”. He noted that the bill should not be perceived as an attempt to gag social media but rather as a framework for appropriate taxation and record-keeping for digital platforms operating in Nigeria.

3/18/2025, 3:36:37 PM

Reps Pass Tax Reform Bills

The House of Representatives on Tuesday approved the four tax reform bills submitted to the National Assembly by President Bola Tinubu in October 2024. Last Thursday, the House reviewed and endorsed the report from the Committee on Finance, which included recommendations on contentious issues like Value Added Tax and inheritance tax. With the Senate's approval still pending, the bills are expected to be forwarded to the President for assent in the coming days.

3/18/2025, 1:56:04 PM

Delta Gov Calls For Slash In House Rents

Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has urged real estate firms in the state to lower rental costs on properties. Speaking through his Chief of Staff, Mr. Johnson Erijo, the governor made the appeal on Monday at the 13th anniversary and annual convention of Property World Africa Network Marketing Company in Asaba, the state capital. “I would like to use this medium to appeal to real estate organisations to help in reducing the cost of rents payable on rented properties. “The current skyrocketing rents are not sustainable, especially for public service workers. I urge you to apply your innovative skills to find ways to make housing more affordable,” he said.

3/18/2025, 7:42:47 AM

Diezani Seeks Court Order To Retrieve Seized Assets

Former Petroleum Minister Diezani Alison-Madueke has urged the Federal High Court in Abuja to compel the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to recover her seized properties from their buyers. In an amended application filed by her lawyer, Chief Mike Ozekhome (SAN), before Justice Inyang Ekwo, she requested the court to nullify the EFCC’s public notice, which led to the auction of her assets. She argued that the sale violated statutory provisions, including the EFCC Act of 2004 and the Proceeds of Crime Recovery and Management Act of 2022. Alison-Madueke contended that the auction breached her right to a fair hearing under Section 36(1) of the 1999 Constitution. She also sought an order restraining the EFCC from further disposing of her properties and requested an extension of time to challenge the forfeiture orders. The EFCC had announced that her assets would be auctioned between January 9 and 13, 2023. In response, Alison-Madueke filed an originating motion (FHC/ABJ/CS/21/2023) on January 6, seeking to halt the sale. However, in a counter-affidavit filed on March 14, the EFCC urged the court to dismiss her suit. Litigation officer Oyakhilome Ekienabor asserted that investigations into her tenure had led to criminal proceedings, and the properties were sold following final forfeiture orders issued in 2019. He maintained that the sales adhered to due process and did not violate her right to a fair hearing.

3/18/2025, 7:34:31 AM

Hardship: House Of Reps Members Donate N705m To Tinubu

Members of Nigeria’s House of Representatives have contributed N705 million, half of their basic salaries from July to December 2024—to support President Bola Tinubu’s initiative for vulnerable citizens. Speaker Tajudeen Abbas announced this on Monday during a Ramadan fast-breaking event with the President and Vice President Kashim Shettima at the Presidential Villa. He stated that the gesture was a show of solidarity, demonstrating that lawmakers empathized with Nigerians facing economic hardship. The decision followed concerns over a possible nationwide youth protest against rising living costs, food scarcity, and unemployment. Lawmakers said the donation aimed to support the Tinubu administration’s efforts to address the economic crisis. The resolution of the House was sequel to a motion of urgent importance for “An appeal to the proponents of the proposed nationwide protest, to maintain peace, eschew violence and open windows for meaningful engagements with the governments at all levels in order to address their issues.” The motion was sponsored by the member representing Ifo/Ewekoro Federal Constituency, Ogun State, Ibrahim Isiaka, during plenary. Speaking at the Presidential Villa on Monday, Abbas announced that the money was ready to be handed over to the Presidency. “The House decided on our own that we need to do something symbolic to show our concern to the entire people of Nigeria that the predicament they were in, we also felt it. “And because of that, we took a resolution that from July 2024 to December 2024 will sacrifice 50% of our basic salaries so I will now set that money aside and contribute and donate to you, so that you can also use it to look at the targeted areas in Nigeria where we have vulnerable people who I need of food, shelter, accommodation, clothing and what have you. “We leave it to you to decide on where and where you want to intervene. But it is a symbolic contribution from the house to show you, as well as show the whole entire nation, that the passage of that particular period was being felt by each and every one of us. “Your Excellency, I’m happy to inform you that the House contributed the sum of 705 million naira, being the 50% of our monthly salary for the for a period of six months,” he said.

3/18/2025, 7:21:02 AM

Otuaro, Omula Families Express Profound Gratitude Over Successful Burial Of Late Mrs. PinaPina

The Otuaro and Omula families have extended their heartfelt appreciation to all who showed love, support, and solidarity during the burial rites of their beloved matriarch, Ma Pinapina Otuaro (née Omula). In a statement signed by Pst. Benson Omula and H.E. Dcn. Kingsley B. Otuaro, Esq., the families acknowledged the overwhelming emotional, financial, and material support they received, describing it as “beyond measure.” They particularly thanked the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, and the Governor of Taraba State, Dr. Agbu Kefas, for their physical presence and encouragement during the solemn occasion. Special appreciation was also extended to former Delta State Governors Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa and Chief James Ibori for their support, mentorship, and guidance. The families also recognized the contributions of Delta State political leaders, including Sen. J.E. Manager, Chief Hon. Thomas Ereyitomi (J.P.), Rt. Hon. Julius G. Pondi, Hon. Barr. Evelyn Oboro, and members of the National and State Assemblies. The statement further acknowledged the support of the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council, the Ijaw Traditional Rulers Forum, and monarchs from Gbaramatu, Ogulagha, and Obotebe Kingdoms, among others. High Chief Tunde Smooth, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, and many other dignitaries were also recognised for their invaluable contributions. Read the full statement below: HEARTFELT APPRECIATION FROM THE OTUARO AND OMULA FAMILIES FOR YOUR LOVE, SUPPORT, AND SOLIDARITY DURING THE BURIAL RITES OF OUR BELOVED MOTHER, MA. PINAPINA OTUARO (NÉE OMULA) Words cannot fully express the depth of our gratitude to God Almighty and to everyone who stood by us during the burial rites of our beloved mother, Ma Pinanapina Otuaro (née Omula). The overwhelming love, prayers, and emotional, financial, and material support extended to us were truly touching. The outpouring of favor, grace, and generosity we received was beyond measure, and we remain forever grateful. To His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Governor of Delta State, and His Excellency, Dr. Agbu Kefas, Governor of Taraba State—your physical presence and encouragement for the Otuaro family during such trying times meant so much to us, and we are very thankful. Our sincere appreciation also goes to the immediate past Governor of Delta State, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, for your well wishes and support. May I also extend my heartfelt gratitude to our highly esteemed and legendary former Governor of Delta State, Chief James Ibori, for your mentorship, guidance, and encouragement during this period. Your love and support for the Otuaro family are truly distinctive. We deeply appreciate the Chairman of PDP Delta State, Chief Solomon Areyinka, and the entire State Working Committee for their unwavering support. To Sen. J.E. Manager, Chief Hon. Thomas Ereyitomi (J.P.), Rt. Hon. Julius G. Pondi, Hon. Barr. Evelyn Oboro and all Members of the National Assembly, we love you all. A special thank you to my brother, the Hon. Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi D. Guwor, for your support and having keen attention to details in the supervisory responsibilities during the burial rites. And the Hon. Members of the State House of Assembly, members of the Delta State Executive Council, and the Local Government Chairmen of Burutu, Udu, Uvwie, and Warri South-West. Our appreciation goes to the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council, led by the first Vice Chairman , HRM Pere Luke Kalanama VIII of Akugbene-Mein Kingdom. Also worthy of note is the Ijaw Traditional Rulers Forum, led by HRM Elder Capt. King Joseph I. Timiyan (JP), the Paramount Ruler of oil-rich Ogulagha Kingdom in Burutu Local Government Area, for their unwavering support for the Otuaro family during this period. Thank you HRM. Pere of Ogulagha Kingdom for the enduring strength of our heritage and unity. And the Pere of the Gbaramatu Kingdom, HRM Oboro Gbaraun II. Thank you so much Majesty for the royal blessings and support given during the funeral rites of our mother, your sister. May the crown rest on your head long in guidance and the continual prosperity of the ancient Kingdom of Gbaramatu. To the revered Chiefs of Gbaramatu Kingdom, Obotebe Kingdom, and other kingdoms, the We say thank you. A heartfelt thank you to my brother, High Chief Tunde Smooth, for your guidance, immeasurable marine logistics, and moral support. I am honored to have you always as a dependable brother. Our appreciation goes to Dcn. Joe Fuludu, Dcness Cindy Abraham, Hon. George Ugulasuowei Timinimi., Rt. Hon. Funkekeme Solomon, Chief Favour Izoukumor, Chief Kenneth Braimoh, Hon. Aduge Okorodudu, Hon. Barr. Kingsley Kuku, Barr. Wilson Ajuwa, Mr. Amah Etuwewe, SAN. Prof. Flora Ubebe, Prof Blessing Tosan. Mr. Hillary Ibegbulem, Hon. Dan Yingi, Chief Emmanuel Amgbaduba, the KBO Family, and our friends from Northern Nigeria, led by Alhaji Aminu Yar'Adua. To the Chairman and members of the NBA, Warri Branch, the Isaba grammar sch Old students' association and my highly esteemed colleagues of Law Class ’99 of Edo State University, Ekpoma, thank you so much for upholding our shared values of love and togetherness. We say thank you to the Clergymen of Ijaw Christian Forum, delegations from Opuba and Ajapa communities from Arogbo kingdom and the Eridi family from Emadaja community in Udu LGA, We are grateful. To the Delta State Coordinator of the NYSC, Mr. John Kwaghe, and Corps members, thank you for your solidarity and assistance. Our special thanks also goes to Mr. Rilwanu Momodu of Chevron and Mr. Mesh Maichibi of SPDC, Pst. Irikefe Ufuoma, Engr. Hassan Garuba. We say thank you to the National Council for Women Societies (NCWS) in Warri South, Warri North, and Warri South-West Local Government Areas for your unwavering support. We want to specially thank the Burial Committee, led by Mr. Jimoh Keneye and Chief Mathew Ebifiebebe, for your tireless efforts, meticulous planning, and exceptional coordination. The seamless execution of every detail, the orderliness, and the peace experienced throughout the burial were a true testament to your dedication, competence, and teamwork. You all carried out this responsibility with distinction, and we are deeply grateful for your outstanding service. May we duly thank and appreciate my brother, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, the incumbent leader of the "Oporozawei House" and its select leadership, for the immeasurable financial and material support. May the good Lord bless our "Oporozawei House" richly in Jesus' name. Amen. Finally, our heartfelt special appreciation and gratitude go to the Loveworld Nation (Christ Embassy Church), Ministry Centre, Warri, under the leadership of Highly Esteemed Pastor Mary Owase. Thank you for being the pivotal upon which the success of the funeral revolved. We are eternally grateful to the leadership of Loveworld Nation, whose unflinching assistance and prayers meant so much to us. From the depths of our hearts, we pray that the Almighty blesses and rewards everyone abundantly in Jesus name, Amen. Thank you! Thank you!! Thank you!!! Signed: Pst. Benson Omula (For the Family) H.E. Dcn. Kingsley B. Otuaro, Esq. The immediate past deputy Governorof DeltaState (For the Children)

3/17/2025, 4:04:23 PM

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