Nigerian leaders have condemned President Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.
They called the March 18 action unconstitutional and a threat to democracy during a March 19 Abuja press conference.
At the event, stakeholders denounced suspending the governor, deputy, and assembly, labeling it a subversion of constitutional governance.
“This assault on democracy must be resisted,” a speaker declared, urging public defiance against federal overreach.
The coalition highlighted constitutional breaches, arguing the president lacks authority to remove elected officials.
They stressed that impeachment requires state assembly action under Section 188.
Furthermore, they contested the emergency declaration, noting Section 305 mandates extreme circumstances absent in Rivers State.
They also emphasized procedural failures, pointing out the National Assembly’s required approval remained unsecured.
Even if valid, Section 11 offered legal alternatives without removing officials, underscoring Tinubu’s disregard for due process.
Accusing the federal government of engineering unrest, they linked it to recent APC defections.
They dismissed pipeline security claims, asserting federal responsibility.
“This consolidates power, not safeguards,” a leader stated, criticizing Tinubu’s favoritism amid Governor Fubara’s compliance with court rulings.
The coalition demanded Tinubu revoke the proclamation and reinstate officials.
They urged the National Assembly to reject it and called for judicial intervention.
Lastly, they mobilized public resistance to protect democracy, declaring, “Nigeria isn’t a dictatorship.”
Warning of Niger Delta destabilization, they cited past efforts to maintain peace crucial for Nigeria’s economy.
They cautioned against personal interests inciting chaos, stressing adherence to federalism.
Concluding, leaders framed the crisis as a national democratic threat, urging vigilance.
Observers now watch Tinubu, lawmakers, and courts to resolve tensions gripping Rivers State.