Majority of Rivers Residents Oppose Federal Intervention in State Governance, Survey Reveals
Almost three months after a political crisis led to the disruption of governance in Rivers State, a new survey has revealed that more than 65% of residents view the federal government’s actions as illegal.
The survey, conducted by the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID), also shows that 92.7% of residents are aware of and oppose the federal government’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, which many see as unconstitutional and politically motivated.
The findings were presented in Abuja on Tuesday by Mboho Eno, Deputy Director of CJID’s Accountability Programme, who said the data reflects widespread public dissatisfaction.
“A striking 92.7% of the 400 respondents said they were aware of the state of emergency and the suspension of democratic institutions in Rivers,” Eno stated.
Despite federal claims that emergency measures were needed due to security concerns, 86.7% of those surveyed reported that daily life continues normally, with no major disruptions — a finding that challenges the government’s official narrative.
Public concern extends to the governance vacuum that has followed. More than 75% of respondents said they were unaware of the activities or plans of the newly appointed Sole Administrator, nearly two months after the appointment was made. This has fuelled perceptions of undemocratic governance and lack of transparency.
The CJID report further noted that 65% of respondents believe the federal government’s intervention in removing the Governor and dissolving the State House of Assembly was illegal.
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Experts warn that this move could set a dangerous precedent, risking a constitutional crisis. Unlike previous states of emergency declared during periods of severe violence — such as in Plateau and Ekiti states under former President Obasanjo, or in the North East under President Jonathan — the current situation in Rivers State is largely political. Suspending elected institutions in this context could seriously damage public trust in democracy.
“This sentiment portrays a deep-rooted respect for electoral mandates and constitutional order among the Rivers populace,” CJID added.
The report also warned that the ongoing emergency rule could impact the upcoming 2027 general elections.
“There is a risk of voter suppression, reduced civil liberties, and manipulation of the electoral process, especially in a state with a history of election violence,” it stated.
Across the state, residents are calling for the return of elected officials and a peaceful resolution to the political crisis.
“By suspending an elected Governor and Assembly and replacing them with an unelected administrator, the federal government may be undermining the very democratic institutions it claims to protect,” the report concluded.
The survey collected responses from 400 people of different backgrounds, including youth, women, civil servants, business owners, and residents from both rural and urban areas across Rivers State’s three senatorial districts. The findings reflect high public awareness and strong disapproval of the ongoing state of emergency.
By Alade Adisa
