The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) condemned President Bola Tinubu’s emergency declaration in Rivers State, calling it unconstitutional.
Furthermore, they argued he lacks authority to replace elected Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
On Tuesday, PDP spokesperson Debo Ologunagba asserted the move violates Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution. He emphasized it overrides citizens’ rights and abuses executive power.
“Tinubu’s suspension of Governor Fubara and appointment of an unelected leader attacks democracy,” Ologunagba stated. “It nullifies Rivers’ voters’ constitutional right to choose their leaders.”
Additionally, the PDP accused the ruling APC of orchestrating chaos to weaken opposition. They alleged this enables a one-party dictatorship through “state capture” tactics.
“Emergency rule aims to spread fear, crush dissent, and establish total control,” he added. “This threatens Nigeria’s democratic foundations.”
Ologunagba argued that President Tinubu exceeded his constitutional authority by declaring a state of emergency without legislative approval. Citing Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, he emphasized that while the provision permits emergency proclamations, it mandates National Assembly involvement, rejecting unilateral executive action.
He clarified, “Section 305(2) requires the President to submit the proclamation to legislative leaders, who must convene the National Assembly to review and approve it.” For the PDP, bypassing this process invalidates the declaration, rendering it unconstitutional.
The party urged Nigerians to resist undemocratic measures and demanded lawmakers defend their constitutional role. Furthermore, it warned against actions undermining governance in Rivers State or nationwide, stressing adherence to due process.
Meanwhile, political observers track escalating tensions, noting scrutiny from civil society and international partners. This standoff highlights growing concerns over executive overreach and democratic integrity in Nigeria’s political landscape.
The PDP’s statement underscores growing concerns about executive overreach and its potential implications for Nigeria’s democratic stability.