Rotimi Amaechi criticizes President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, which includes suspending its governor and assembly members. He views this as an unconstitutional power grab that threatens democracy and urges political unity against it. Amaechi calls for action from political leaders and citizens to protect constitutional governance.
Former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi has openly criticized President Bola Tinubu’s recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, which includes the suspension of the state governor, Siminalayi Fubara, and members of the assembly for six months. This political crisis arises from ongoing tensions between Mr. Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, who currently serves as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. The President’s decision, announced on Tuesday, has faced backlash from notable opposition figures such as Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Mr. Amaechi firmly condemned the President’s unilateral actions, asserting, “I unequivocally condemn the rather brazen and unilaterally reckless suspension and removal of the governor of Rivers State… Mr. President has technically suspended and truncated democracy in Rivers State.” This action is viewed as a violation of Nigeria’s Constitution, particularly noting that the Constitution outlines specific procedures for removing a state governor, which does not include arbitrary proclamations from the President.
Mr. Amaechi emphasized that the President’s suspension of democratically elected officials undermines the legal framework of governance as established in Nigeria. He asserted that such actions signify a dangerous power grab by individuals lacking constitutional authority, and he urged all citizens with integrity to oppose this infringement on democracy. He also stressed that politicians across various political lines must unite to resist what he termed a slide into totalitarianism.
As a seasoned politician, Amaechi recognizes the critical role elected governors play in safeguarding democracy; he commended those who have publicly denounced the suspension, labeling it a grave threat to Nigeria’s constitutional order. He called upon the National Assembly to reject this violation of law and uphold democratic practices as part of their responsibilities.
In summation, Rotimi Amaechi denounced President Tinubu’s decision as a dangerous affront to democracy in Rivers State. The situation highlights significant concerns regarding the erosion of democratic principles and the need for collective resistance against unconstitutional actions, urging officials at all levels to stand firm in protection of Nigeria’s constitutional values.
In conclusion, the situation in Rivers State, as articulated by Rotimi Amaechi, raises significant concerns regarding the preservation of democratic principles within Nigeria. The actions taken by President Bola Tinubu have been characterized as unconstitutional and a potential pathway to totalitarianism. It is essential for politicians and citizens alike to unite against such actions to ensure the integrity of the country’s democratic institutions.
Original Source: gazettengr.com
