Nigerian professionals in Europe say Rivers emergency rule may discourage investors

The Association of Nigerian Professionals in Europe (ANPE) has condemned the emergency rule in Rivers state.

BACKGROUND

On March 18, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers, citing the protracted political crisis and vandalisation of oil facilities.

The president suspended Fubara, Ngozi Odu, his deputy, and all house of assembly members for six months.

Tinubu also appointed Ibok-Ete Ibas, a retired vice-admiral, as the sole administrator for Rivers state.

On March 20, the senate and the house of representatives controversially ratified Tinubu’s request for the emergency rule.

‘DISAPPOINTING DECLARATION’

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Solomon Ola, ANPE global president, warned that the emergency rule in Rivers could erode investors’ confidence and further disrupt the nation’s economy.

“Nigeria’s reputation as a stable investment destination is at stake. This arbitrary abrogation of constitutional procedures erodes trust in Nigeria’s dedication to democratic values, which discourages potential investors,” the statement reads.

“It is a fact that the Nigerian constitution delineates the processes for addressing grievances against elected officials, none of which is the unilateral imposition of a state of emergency by the federal government.

“By ignoring this legal procedure, the president not only set a dangerous precedent but also signalled a disregard for the principles of federalism.”

Solomon described the emergency rule as an “authoritarian manoeuvre”, adding that it has “drawn criticism from international observers” and could affect Nigeria’s status as an investment destination.

“It is a thing of disappointment that our beloved country, which was once praised as a beacon of democracy in Africa, is gradually being perceived by international communities as a nation that is failing in its democratic ideals,” Ola said.

“Many international bodies and foreign governments have expressed disapproving concerns over the erosion of democratic norms in Nigeria.”

Ola asked Tinubu to urgently reverse the emergency rule in Rivers and ensure all elected officials in the state resume their duties.