A fresh legal battle has erupted at the Federal High Court in Abuja as Daniel Wariboko, a lawyer and registered voter in Rivers State, challenges the recent declaration of emergency rule in the state. Wariboko, representing himself and other voters, is seeking a judicial review of the legality of the emergency powers granted to the President.

The lawsuit, FHC/ABJ/CS0/550 /2025, targets top government figures, including the President, the Senate President, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the National Assembly, and the Attorney General. The case specifically questions whether Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution allows the President to unilaterally impose emergency rule, bypassing the constitutional requirements, and whether the National Assembly’s voice vote approval followed proper legal procedures.

Wariboko contends that the emergency rule violates democratic rights and undermines constitutional principles, a sentiment echoed by civil society groups. Legal experts are closely monitoring the case, which could set a significant precedent for executive powers

and democratic governance in Nigeria. The Federal High Court is expected to schedule the first hearing soon.

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