PORT HARCOURT — A civil society group, Initiative for Freedom, Conflict Preservation and Social Integration, has filed a lawsuit at the Federal High Court in Port Harcourt, challenging President Bola Tinubu’s alleged interference in the governance of Rivers State.
In its originating summons, the group is asking the court to determine whether, under Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the President has the constitutional authority to suspend a sitting state governor. The case specifically questions the legality of Tinubu’s reported actions in Rivers State, including the appointment of a Sole Administrator to govern the state.
The organization is also seeking the court’s interpretation of Section 179 (1) and (2) of the Constitution, to determine whether the President’s appointment of a Sole Administrator can override the mandate of a democratically elected governor.
The group wants the court to declare the President’s alleged suspension of the Rivers governor as “ultra vires,” unconstitutional, and a violation of the 1999 Constitution. It further demands a declaration that the appointment of a Sole Administrator—reportedly announced on March 28, 2025—is invalid and cannot confer legal authority to govern the state.
When the case came up for mention on Monday, counsel to the second and third defendants, Ola Faro, informed the court that he had yet to file a response to the summons but was still within the allowed timeframe and requested an extension. Plaintiff’s counsel, Amegua Lezina, did not object.
Justice Muhammad Turaki adjourned the matter to July 21, 2025, for hearing.
Addressing reporters after the proceedings, Lezina clarified that the suit was not aimed at any individual but was filed in defense of constitutional governance and the rule of law in Nigeria.
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