Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has strongly condemned the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu, calling it an unconstitutional act that undermines democracy.
Makinde revealed that governors elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have resolved to challenge the decision in court, following an emergency meeting of the PDP Governors’ Forum on Wednesday.
Commending his party for demonstrating “the needed strength and leadership,” the Oyo governor insisted that the suspension of democratic institutions in Rivers State must be resisted by all well-meaning Nigerians.
President Tinubu had, on Tuesday, declared a state of emergency in Rivers, suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, Ngozi Odu, and the state House of Assembly for six months. He subsequently appointed Vice Admiral Ibok Ibas (Rtd.) as the sole administrator of the state.
Reacting in his biweekly newsletter, The Business of Governance Issue 110, Makinde described the move as an “illegality” and urged Nigerians to stand against it.
“I stand today to say that the declaration of the state of emergency in Rivers State and the suspension of the executive and legislative arms of government by the presidency is an illegality that right-thinking members of society must oppose,” he stated.
He further emphasized the need to uphold democratic principles, regardless of political affiliations.
“Our democratic tenets must never be trifled with, no matter our personal feelings and loyalties. This is the time to take a stand for fairness, equity, and justice. As our democracy grows, we must be willing to speak up against anything that threatens our national development,” Makinde added.
The PDP Governors’ Forum, he disclosed, has resolved to take legal action against the decision, ensuring that the rule of law prevails.
“Yesterday (Wednesday), the PDP Governors’ Forum rose from an emergency meeting where we unanimously decided to challenge the actions of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in a court of competent jurisdiction. We cannot allow this precedent to stand,” he declared.
The political crisis in Rivers State has continued to generate controversy, with stakeholders expressing concerns over its implications for Nigeria’s democracy.
Comments