Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja ruled that the plaintiffs lacked the legal standing to institute the case.
Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja dismissed a lawsuit that challenged the emergency rule in Rivers State.
Belema Briggs and four others filed the suit to contest President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of the emergency.
Justice Omotosho decided the plaintiffs did not have the legal standing to bring the case.
The judge explained that only the Supreme Court can decide on cases like this.
None of the plaintiffs claimed membership in the State Executive Committee, the House of Assembly, or suffered a unique injury.
Justice Omotosho said the President’s claim that the emergency prevented a breakdown of law and order was undisputed.
The judge added that allegations of breach of fundamental rights could not stand because the President acted under the appropriate Emergency Rule Order.
The court concluded the case was frivolous and baseless, noting the plaintiffs did not obtain the consent of Rivers’ citizens before filing.
President Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State in March. He suspended Governor Fubara, his deputy, and all State Assembly members.
The President appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas as Administrator to oversee the state.
Tinubu cited rising political instability and attacks on oil infrastructure as causes of the emergency. The federal government feared a potential breakdown of law, order, and economic stability.
The emergency aimed to restore security and prevent further disruptions in the state. Tinubu ended the emergency on September 17, citing improved political cooperation and restored stability.
Governor Fubara, his deputy, and the Assembly members resumed duties the next day with supporters welcoming him. Citizens had protested during the emergency, demanding a return to democratic governance.
