The Byzantine Emperor during the Nika Riots in 532 AD was Justinian I. The Nika Riots erupted from discontent with the emperor's policies and were initially fueled by rival factions of chariot racing supporters, the Blues and the Greens, who united against Justinian's rule. The unrest escalated to widespread violence, resulting in significant destruction, including the burning of much of Constantinople. Justinian ultimately quelled the riots through military force, primarily via the general Belisarius, leading to thousands of deaths. Despite the chaos, Justinian used this opportunity to strengthen his rule and improved the city’s infrastructure and laws, notably the Corpus Juris Civilis.