Tinubu needs the approval of the national assembly to ratify his emergency rule decalaration in Rivers state
The Coalition of Democrats in Africa has criticised the national assembly for approving the declaration of emergency rule in Rivers state by President Bola Tinubu.
A statement issued in Abuja on Thursday by Ibrahim Mustapha, the coalition’s president, described the suspension of Siminalayi Fubara, governor of the state, his deputy, and the house of assembly as “troubling”.
The group warned that the move sets a “dangerous precedent” for Nigeria’s democracy, adding that such decisions must follow due constitutional processes.
“The National Assembly had an opportunity to defend democratic principles, but instead, it endorsed an action that raises serious constitutional concerns,” the statement reads.
Advertisement
The pro-democracy group also questioned why emergency rule was imposed in Rivers state, while some northern states dealing with prolonged insecurity have not received similar attention.
“Nigerians have watched for years as terrorists and criminals overrun communities in the North, displacing thousands and taking countless lives, yet no state of emergency has been declared there,” the statement added.
The group called on Nigerians and the international community to remain vigilant in ensuring that democratic institutions are not undermined.
Advertisement
The statement also urged lawmakers to carefully consider the long-term impact of their decisions, adding that democratic accountability and constitutional governance must be upheld.
Add a comment
