Soyinka criticizes Tinubu’s suspension of elected officials in Rivers, calls for constitutional review

DDM News

Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, has criticized President Bola Tinubu’s suspension of elected officials in Rivers State.

According to Diaspora Digital Media (DDM), he also condemned the declaration of a state of emergency in the state.

Soyinka believes these actions violate federalism and centralize power within the Nigerian government.

He argued that Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution grants excessive authority to the president.

This concentration of power undermines the essence of federalism.

Soyinka emphasized that Nigeria’s governance structure is unsuitable for a diverse country.

He called for a constitutional review to ensure a balanced distribution of power.

“If it is constitutionally right, then we must amend the constitution,” he said.

Soyinka stated that Nigeria’s system overly centralizes power at the federal level.

He described this structure as flawed and undemocratic.

True federalism requires greater autonomy for state and local governments.

In many developed countries, states have more power to govern independently.

However, Nigeria’s constitution limits states’ ability to make critical decisions.

This excessive centralization hinders development and political stability.

Soyinka warned that unchecked presidential power threatens democracy.

He urged leaders to empower states for effective governance.

Soyinka acknowledged differing opinions on the state of emergency in Rivers State.

However, he stressed that federal principles must be upheld.

He argued that federal interference weakens state governance.

The Rivers situation highlights the dangers of an overpowered presidency.

Soyinka fears this move could set a dangerous precedent.

Direct federal intervention in state affairs is a major concern.

Political analysts also warn against excessive central government control.

Soyinka insisted that true federalism allows states to function independently.

The Nobel Laureate reiterated his call for constitutional amendments.

He proposed a national conference to draft a new constitution.

Soyinka believes Nigeria’s governance model is outdated.

The current system does not reflect Nigeria’s diversity.

He stressed the need for decentralized governance.

Power should be distributed to ensure inclusive decision-making.

Soyinka called constitutional reform a democratic necessity.

“This is the only way Nigeria can function as a true federal state,” he said.

Many Nigerians share Soyinka’s concerns about centralization.

Civil society groups have long demanded governance restructuring.

Critics argue that real power remains concentrated in Abuja.

Political interference in state affairs threatens Nigeria’s democracy.

Soyinka’s remarks have intensified the debate on constitutional reform.

It remains uncertain whether President Tinubu will consider these changes.

However, the call for restructuring is growing louder.

Nigeria must embrace true federalism for a stable and democratic future.

Kindly share!!

For Diaspora Digital Media Updates click on Whatsapp, or Telegram. For eyewitness accounts/ reports/ articles, write to: citizenreports@diasporadigitalmedia.com. Follow us on X (Fomerly Twitter) or Facebook