Former governor of Rivers State and ex-Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, Rotimi Amaechi, has strongly criticized President Bola Tinubu for declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State and suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara along with members of the state assembly for six months.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Amaechi condemned what he termed as a “brazen and unilaterally reckless” action by President Tinubu, asserting that it constitutes a flagrant violation of Nigeria’s Constitution.
He emphasized that the Constitution does not grant the President the authority to unilaterally remove a democratically elected governor, citing Section 188 as the legal framework for such actions.
“A democratically elected state governor cannot be removed from office by a proclamation of Mr. President,” Amaechi stated unequivocally.
He argued that Tinubu’s actions undermine democratic institutions and amount to a dangerous attempt to usurp constitutional powers in Rivers State.
Amaechi, known for his vocal stance on governance issues, urged political leaders across party lines to oppose what he described as an “audacious violation” of democratic norms.
He called upon state governors, legislators, and the National Assembly to reject the suspension, emphasizing that such actions could set a perilous precedent for Nigeria’s democratic future.
“The unfolding events in Rivers State point to a clear orchestrated plot to unconstitutionally perpetrate and impose control,” Amaechi warned.
He urged all Nigerians of goodwill to unite against what he termed a “rape of our democracy,” stressing the need for collective action to safeguard democratic principles.
Acknowledging governors who have spoken out against the suspension, Amaechi underscored the importance of defending Nigeria’s constitutional integrity in the face of such challenges.
He concluded by urging stakeholders to take a firm stand against what he deemed a “dangerous affront” to Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
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