The African Action Congress (AAC) criticized President Bola Tinubu for declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State, describing it as an affront to democracy and a coup against Nigerians. The party accused Tinubu of hypocrisy for his past condemnation of similar actions and warned of the implications for Nigeria’s democratic integrity. They urged vigilance against military-style governance.
The African Action Congress (AAC) has issued a strong condemnation of President Bola Tinubu’s recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, characterizing it as an attack on democracy and a calculated move to undermine constitutional governance in Nigeria. The opposition party emphasizes that the declaration is tantamount to a “coup staged against Nigerians,” disrupting the fundamental democratic principles of the nation.
In a statement attributed to Femi Adeyeye, the National Publicity Secretary of the AAC, the party accuses the Tinubu administration of cowardice and a blatant disregard for the rule of law. The AAC asserts that this measure is an affront to governance, describing Tinubu’s actions as “uncivilized” and threatening to the democratic fabric of Nigeria.
The AAC claims Tinubu’s declaration diminishes the judiciary’s authority and undermines due process. They argue that since the courts had already addressed the crisis in Rivers State, the president’s actions illustrate a blatant contempt for legal processes, effectively announcing a state of anarchy in the region.
Furthermore, the party highlights Tinubu’s hypocrisy, recalling his criticisms of former President Goodluck Jonathan’s similar actions in 2013. The AAC argues that Tinubu, after denouncing Jonathan for his emergency declaration, has now engaged in the same behavior, showcasing a lack of integrity in his leadership.
The AAC cautions that Nigeria’s democracy is under threat, warning that regional neighbors in West Africa may interpret Tinubu’s move as indicative of dictatorial tendencies. They express concern that countries like Mali, Guinea, and Burkina Faso may mock the situation, interpreting Tinubu’s actions as emblematic of military rule in Nigeria’s political landscape.
The party also places blame on both Tinubu and the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, for escalating the crisis in Rivers State. They contend that the duo has failed to manage the turmoil they instigated, demanding an immediate cessation of actions undermining constitutional governance and the rights of citizens.
In light of the situation, the AAC calls on citizens to remain vigilant and actively resist any attempts to establish military-style governance under Tinubu’s administration. Following the declaration, Tinubu has placed Governor Siminalayi Fubara and other state officials on suspension, appointing a military administrator in their stead, claiming security issues as justification for his decision.
The crisis has been exacerbated by a longstanding feud between Fubara and Wike, culminating in political instability and divisions within the Rivers State House of Assembly. The conflict has seen lawmakers shifting allegiances, culminating in legal challenges over the authority and allocation of resources in the state, further complicating the already volatile situation.
In conclusion, the African Action Congress voices strong opposition to President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, arguing that it undermines democracy and the rule of law in Nigeria. The party denounces the measure as hypocritical and an indication of potential dictatorial governance. Moreover, they call for vigilance among Nigerians to resist any attempts at imposing military-style rule, emphasizing the urgent need to uphold democratic principles in the country.
Original Source: saharareporters.com
