Peter Obi Critiques Suspension of Rivers Governor, Warns of Unconstitutional Moves

Peter Obi condemned President Tinubu’s suspension of Rivers State Governor Fubara as unconstitutional, stating it undermines democratic progress. He criticized the declaration of a state of emergency as unjustified and warned it threatens the rule of law and democracy in Nigeria. Obi urged the National Assembly to intervene to prevent a culture of impunity and expressed hope for a new Nigeria.

Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has openly criticized President Bola Tinubu’s suspension of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, deeming it unconstitutional and reckless. In a statement, Obi asserted that this decision has reinstated lawlessness in Nigeria and compromised 26 years of democratic advancement. He emphasized that the disregard for the rule of law indicates a troubling propensity to undermine democracy.

Furthermore, Obi condemned the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, arguing that such a measure is unwarranted and serves mainly to centralize power. He described it as an unjustifiable imposition of martial rule, claiming that there is no political basis that justifies such an extreme response. Obi highlighted that the current political climate does not justify applying section 305(1) of the 1999 Constitution in this manner.

Obi asserted that a state of emergency does not authorize the President to unilaterally remove an elected governor. He warned that this trajectory threatens democracy, the rule of law, and the separation of powers, potentially fostering a culture of impunity. “If left unchecked, it will foster a culture of impunity,” he cautioned. He also lamented that the arbitrary removal of elected officials could exacerbate existing electoral irregularities and lead Nigeria further towards anarchy.

Obi urged the National Assembly and relevant stakeholders to take action to prevent what he described as a growing culture of lawlessness and impunity. He concluded with a hopeful assertion, saying that a new Nigeria is possible. It is noteworthy that President Tinubu had suspended Governor Fubara, his deputy, and other assembly members over perceived instability in the state, actions that have drawn widespread condemnation across the nation.

In his defense, President Tinubu stated that the political crisis has rendered governance in Rivers State ineffective, impeding citizens’ access to the benefits of democracy. He particularly blamed Governor Fubara for demolishing the Rivers State House of Assembly, calling that action unjustifiable.

In summary, Peter Obi’s critique of President Tinubu’s actions highlights significant concerns regarding constitutional integrity and democratic principles in Nigeria. The declaration of a state of emergency and the suspension of Governor Fubara reflect a troubling trend toward authoritarian governance, which threatens the rule of law. Obi’s appeal for intervention from the National Assembly underscores the urgent need to safeguard Nigeria’s democratic framework against potential erosion.

Original Source: saharareporters.com