A coalition of Nigerians condemns President Tinubu’s state of emergency in Rivers, calling it unconstitutional and a threat to democracy

[dropcap]A[/dropcap] coalition of Nigerians has expressed profound concern over President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, calling the move a gross abuse of power and a violation of Nigeria’s Constitution, democratic principles, and the rule of law.

Also read: Organised labour threatens action over state of emergency in Rivers

In an official letter to the African Union Commission, the coalition criticized Tinubu’s decision to suspend the elected governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminilayi Fubara, along with the State House of Assembly.

The group believes that this action undermines the democratic process and sets a dangerous precedent for authoritarian rule in Nigeria and across Africa.

The coalition’s letter outlines their deep dissatisfaction, emphasizing that Section 305 of the Nigerian Constitution, which was cited by the President as the legal basis for the action, does not authorize the suspension of elected officials.

The proper grounds for removing a governor, as outlined in Section 188, were clearly disregarded.

“As the Chairman of ECOWAS, Nigeria is expected to lead by example in upholding democratic governance across Africa,” the letter stated.

“Unfortunately, this unconstitutional action demonstrates the opposite and signals a threat to democracy within Nigeria and the wider African continent.”

The letter also raised concerns over the potential consequences of such a declaration, including the breakdown of law and order, the destabilization of democratic institutions, and the erosion of Nigeria’s reputation as a democratic leader in Africa.

The coalition warned that the imposition of emergency rule in Rivers State could trigger unrest and violence, particularly as it challenges the principles of federalism and the autonomy of Nigeria’s states.

They further expressed their worry over the long-term implications for democratic governance in Africa, especially if other leaders follow Nigeria’s lead.

In their letter, the coalition made several key requests of the African Union Commission:

1. To condemn the state of emergency in Rivers State and the suspension of elected officials.

2. To urge President Tinubu to immediately lift the state of emergency and restore the democratically elected government.

3. To send a fact-finding mission to Rivers State to investigate the situation and gather evidence regarding the suspension of democratic institutions.

4. To take action to ensure that Nigeria upholds the principles of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.

Also read: Ex-Rivers civil service head accuses Governor Fubara of ordering assembly bombing

The coalition’s call comes at a critical time for Nigeria, with growing concerns about the state of democracy under President Tinubu’s leadership. It remains to be seen how the African Union will respond to these urgent calls for action.