Political group asks Tinubu to revoke Fubara’s suspension, ‘save’ Nigeria’s global image

The Progressives Without Borders, a political group, has asked President Bola Tinubu to revoke the suspension of Siminalayi Fubara, Rivers governor, to “save the country’s image”.

In March, Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers following the persistent political crisis and instability in the state.

The president also suspended Fubara, Ngozi Odu, his deputy, and the state assembly members. He also nominated Ibok-Ete Ibas, a retired vice-admiral, as the state’s administrator.

In a statement on Wednesday, John Andrew, the group’s president and chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in South-East London, said the decision has “severely damaged” Nigeria’s image within the international community.

He noted that the move has also contravened the fundamental principles of federalism and democratic governance.

“Nigeria’s global reputation has suffered irreparable damage, with the country being perceived as one where the government disregards the rule of law and undermines democratic institutions,” the statement reads.

“The dubious interpretation of the Constitution that underpinned the suspension of Governor Fubara has only exacerbated these concerns. The timing of these developments could not be more inopportune, occurring against the backdrop of a highly contested presidential election.

“The legitimacy of the election outcome has been called into question by many international observers, and the government’s actions have only served to fuel these concerns.

“As a result, the Tinubu administration’s ratings have plummeted, and Nigeria’s global reputation has been severely tarnished. The long-term implications of these developments are profoundly disturbing, portending a potentially irreversible erosion of trust in democratic institutions and the rule of law.”

The group said revoking the suspension is the first step towards restoring confidence in the government’s commitment to democratic values.

“The President must take concrete steps to address the concerns of the international community and ensure that the judiciary is independent and impartial,” the group added.

“The government must also address the underlying issues that led to the crisis in Rivers State, requiring a comprehensive approach that takes into account the political, economic, and social factors that contributed to the crisis.

“Additionally, the government must ensure that the rule of law is upheld and that the rights of citizens are protected. To restore Nigeria’s global reputation, the government must take concrete steps to promote democratic values and the rule of law, requiring a concerted effort to address the concerns of the international community and ensure that the government is transparent and accountable.

“The government must also foster a culture of democracy and respect for the rule of law, requiring a long-term commitment to promoting democratic values and ensuring that the government is accountable to the people.”