SMBLF Critiques Tinubu’s Emergency Declaration in Rivers State

The SMBLF condemned President Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State and the removal of its Governor, citing unconstitutional actions and a trend toward political intolerance. They urged the National Assembly to intervene and warned that these developments threaten democracy in Nigeria.

The Southern and Middle Belt Leaders Forum (SMBLF) has strongly criticized President Bola Tinubu’s recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, alongside the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu. In a statement signed by various leaders of the SMBLF, the forum labeled Tinubu’s actions as unconstitutional, expressing concern over the implications for democratic governance in Nigeria.

The SMBLF denounced the President’s decision as “unfortunate,” arguing that it disregards a democratically elected administration on what they termed “flimsy grounds,” particularly referencing accusations of militant threats without any substantive investigation into the governor’s alleged involvement. This move is perceived as fostering a culture of political intolerance, threatening to transition Nigeria toward a one-party state.

The group emphasized that the Nigerian Constitution does not authorize the Federal Government to seize control of individual states, asserting that Section 305 (5), referenced by President Tinubu, does not support his actions. Furthermore, the SMBLF exhorted the citizens of Rivers State and the broader Niger Delta region to remain calm and avoid violent reactions to this situation.

In their statement, the SMBLF expressed explicit condemnation of the emergency declaration and the disbandment of the State House of Assembly, arguing that these actions ultimately serve the interests of Nyesom Wike, the current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and former governor of Rivers State. The group contended that federal intervention is only valid if a state legislature cannot function, a situation that does not apply in this case.

Additionally, the forum pointed out that the dysfunction within the Rivers State House of Assembly, which includes members who defected to the President’s party while their status remains under legal dispute, is partly responsible for the challenges cited by the President as justification for his actions. They recalled that former President Goodluck Jonathan managed to declare states of emergency in certain regions without dismantling existing democratic structures.

The SMBLF criticized President Tinubu for holding Governor Fubara accountable for security issues, such as pipeline vandalism, which fall under the jurisdiction of federal agencies rather than state governance. They argue, “The President’s decision to dismiss the democratically elected government and impose a military administrator is a blatant act that favors political interests and undermines democracy.”

In light of these developments, the SMBLF urged the National Assembly to utilize its constitutional authority, especially under Section 305, to rescind what they deemed a “despotic and ominous” decision. They warned that such actions by the President echo Nigeria’s tumultuous past and pose significant risks to the country’s democratic principles.

The Southern and Middle Belt Leaders Forum has expressed strong opposition to President Tinubu’s emergency declaration in Rivers State, citing constitutional violations and potential political intolerance. They urge the National Assembly to act against what they see as a dangerous precedent that undermines democracy and promotes a one-party state. The situation calls for vigilance and active participation in safeguarding democratic governance in Nigeria.

Original Source: punchng.com