Peter Obi: Tinubu’s suspension of Fubara reckless and unconstitutional

Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 election, says President Bola Tinubu’s suspension of Siminalayi Fubara as governor of Rivers is “an unconstitutional overreach”.

On Tuesday, the president declared a state of emergency in Rivers following the prolonged political crisis and instability in the state.

Tinubu suspended the governor, his deputy and members of the state assembly.

The president also nominated retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as the administrator of the state for the next six months.

In a statement on Wednesday, Obi described the move as reckless, arguing that it undermines the nation’s democratic journey.

He added that the president’s declaration signals a dangerous willingness to trample on the rule of law.

“The political situation on the ground in Rivers does not justify such an extreme measure, and it is also a biased interpretation of section 305(1) of the 1999 constitution,” he wrote on X.

“A state of emergency does not mean an elected governor can be removed unilaterally. This decision does not align with democratic norms or good governance.

“Instead, it appears to be a predetermined action serving specific interests rather than the collective good of the people of Rivers State and Nigeria.

“This action constitutes an unconstitutional overreach, setting a dangerous precedent that threatens democracy, the rule of law, and the separation of powers. If left unchecked, it could foster a culture of impunity.”

The former governor of Anambra urged the national assembly to reject Tinubu’s “unilateral removal” of Fubara.