The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has vehemently rejected the declaration of a State of Emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing the move as unconstitutional and a blatant assault on democratic governance.
In a statement issued by the National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Debo Ologunagba, the opposition party faulted the President’s decision, accusing him of overstepping his constitutional powers by allegedly removing an elected governor and imposing an unelected individual to govern a state controlled by the PDP.
“The PDP and indeed, Nigerians listened with dismay to the national broadcast by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in which he, in utter violation of the 1999 Constitution, pronounced an imposition of a state of emergency in Rivers State,” the statement read.
The party described the development as an attempt to undermine the will of the people of Rivers State and impose what it termed an “undemocratic rule.”
It condemned the reported suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the appointment of Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (rtd) as a caretaker leader, insisting that such action amounts to state capture and a direct attack on democracy.
“This unconstitutional declaration by President Tinubu is a clear abrogation of the votes and democratic rights of the people of Rivers State to choose their leader under the Constitution,” the PDP stressed.
According to the party, the reasons cited by the President do not meet the constitutional threshold required for declaring a state of emergency as outlined in Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution.
The PDP further argued that the proclamation must be subject to approval by the National Assembly and cannot be unilaterally implemented by the President.
“The PDP alerts that the unwarranted imposition of emergency rule in Rivers State is part of a broader agenda to stifle opposition, foist a one-party state, and create a climate of fear across the country,” the statement added.
It also warned that the move could destabilize not only Rivers State but the nation at large, and cautioned Vice Admiral Ibas against taking any action that could undermine democratic governance in the state.
“For emphasis, Governor Fubara was democratically elected for a tenure of four years, which cannot be unconstitutionally abridged.
Nigeria is not under military rule where state governance is determined by executive appointment,” the party emphasized.
The PDP concluded by urging all democratic institutions and well-meaning Nigerians to resist what it described as an authoritarian drift, calling for respect for the Constitution and protection of the democratic process.