The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, has urged critics of the state of emergency in Rivers State to allow the judiciary to decide on the matter.
The PDP Governors’ Forum has filed a suit challenging the declaration of the state of emergency by President Bola Tinubu following the political crisis in the state.
Fagbemi cautioned against public commentary since the matter is already before the Supreme Court.
He gave the advice during an interview with journalists in Lagos during the presentation of “Tribulations and Trophies: Bola Ajibola in His Own Words,” the autobiography of the late Prince Bola Ajibola, former Minister of Justice and Judge at the International Court of Justice.
The minister said, “When issues arise, people should study the law carefully and examine the facts. It’s not about emotion, sentiment, or political affiliation—it’s about what the law says and what strengthens the rule of law.
“I’ve intentionally avoided taking sides, not because I’m not part of the government—I am—but because the matter is before the court. We should all wait for a judicial decision.
“Let us refrain from unnecessary commentary. Either you make a public comment or you allow the court to do its work. Since the court is already involved, let’s be patient.”
Reflecting on the late Ajibola, Fagbemi described him as “a man of impeccable character and integrity,” who was fair-minded and always stood for the truth.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, speaking at the event, recounted his early relationship with Ajibola and praised his significant contributions to the legal profession and the education sector.
Former vice president, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, who delivered a keynote address virtually, hailed Ajibola’s legacy, describing him as a model of integrity.
He noted that Ajibola was the first Attorney General of the Federation to forgo his salary, instead directing it to a charity account.
Osinbajo also recalled that the late jurist sold all his properties in Lagos—retaining only his home in Abeokuta—to establish Crescent University, underscoring his commitment to education.
