The Federal High Court has dismissed a suit challenging President Bola Tinubu’s March 18, 2025 proclamation of a State of Emergency in Rivers State, describing the case as frivolous and baseless.

The suit, filed by Belema Briggs and four others, was heard by Justice James Omotosho. The court ruled that the plaintiffs lacked the legal standing to institute the case, as they did not suffer any legal wrong beyond that of the general public.

Justice Omotosho noted that only the Supreme Court has the authority to determine such matters. The court observed that none of the plaintiffs were members of the state executive council, the House of Assembly, or had authorization from the State Attorney General to bring the case.

The judge further stated that President Tinubu’s action to impose the emergency rule to prevent a looming breakdown of law and order was neither challenged nor disputed by the plaintiffs. Claims of breach of fundamental rights were also dismissed, as the appropriate law on emergency powers was invoked.

The court concluded that the suit was baseless, emphasizing that the plaintiffs did not obtain the mandate of the people of Rivers State before filing the case.