…Calls on NASS, Governors, and Nigerians to oppose Tinubu’s decision

…Labels Tinubu’s action as an assault on our democracy

Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, the former Governor of Rivers State and ex-Minister of Transportation, has sharply criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly. Amaechi described the action as “undemocratic, unconstitutional, and a blatant breach of Nigeria’s Constitution.” He called for a united stance from the National Assembly, state governors, and other stakeholders to reject what he deemed an “illegal power grab.”

Amaechi contended that President Tinubu had overstepped his constitutional authority by suspending elected state officials. He referenced Section 188 of the Nigerian Constitution, which outlines the impeachment process for a governor, asserting that elected officials cannot be removed by presidential decree. According to Amaechi, this act of suspension undermines democracy in Rivers State and violates the very Constitution that the President swore to uphold.

He also criticized Tinubu’s invocation of Section 305, which permits the President to declare a state of emergency, arguing that it does not grant the power to dissolve elected bodies of government. Amaechi accused political forces of attempting to execute a covert political takeover in Rivers State and urged people across political lines to oppose what he described as an “audacious violation of democracy.”

The statement comes as reactions to the emergency rule in Rivers State remain divided. While some view it as a necessary measure to restore stability, others, like Amaechi, argue it sets a dangerous precedent that undermines democratic values. Amaechi praised governors who spoke out against the suspension and called for others to join the fight to prevent Nigeria from slipping into totalitarianism.