Atiku Abubakar Leads Charge Against Tinubu’s Emergency Declaration In Rivers State

Political Leaders Speak Out Against Tinubu’s Rivers State Decision

Listen up, folks. There's been some serious pushback against President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State. And it’s not just coming from one corner—it's a chorus of disapproval from some heavyweights in Nigerian politics. These leaders, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, are raising their voices loud and clear, calling the decision unconstitutional and asking for immediate action to reverse it.

In a press conference led by Atiku Abubakar, these political stakeholders made it crystal clear that they believe Tinubu's move sets a dangerous precedent. They argue that such a declaration undermines the democratic principles Nigeria has worked so hard to uphold. Joining Atiku in this call for justice are former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai and former Transport Minister Rotimi Amaechi, among others. These aren't just random voices—they're experienced leaders who have a deep understanding of the country's political landscape.

Why the Stakeholders Are Calling for a Reversal

The group made it evident that they want President Tinubu to reconsider his decision and revoke the emergency declaration as soon as possible. They’re urging him to reinstate the elected governor, deputy governor, and state assembly of Rivers State. But it’s not just about Rivers State—it’s about the future of democracy in Nigeria. By allowing this declaration to stand, they argue, we risk opening the door to similar actions in other states, potentially destabilizing the country further.

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These leaders are also appealing to the National Assembly to reject the declaration when it comes up for approval. They believe that if the assembly sides with the president, it would be legitimizing an unconstitutional power grab. It’s crucial, they say, for the National Assembly to stand firm and make the right decision for the good of the nation.

The Role of the Judiciary and Nigerians in This Fight

Let’s not forget the judiciary, which has a crucial role to play in this situation. The stakeholders are urging the courts to act swiftly to strike down the proclamation. They warn that failing to do so could pave the way for future administrations to arbitrarily remove elected governors. This isn’t just about Rivers State—it’s about the integrity of our democratic system.

And it’s not just the leaders’ responsibility to defend democracy. The call goes out to all Nigerians, especially civil society organizations and political groups, to rise and defend the democratic principles that have been hard-earned. Rivers State isn’t a conquered territory, and Nigeria isn’t a dictatorship where elected officials can be replaced with military administrators without due process. This is a critical moment for the country, and everyone has a part to play in ensuring that democracy thrives.

Naija News reports that the group's demands are clear and urgent. Here's what they're asking for:

1. Immediate Reversal: President Bola Ahmed Tinubu must revoke the unconstitutional proclamation right away and reinstate the elected governor, deputy governor, and state assembly of Rivers State. The democratic process must be respected, and the will of the people honored.

2. National Assembly’s Rejection: Senators and representatives must vote against this illegal action when it comes before them for approval. The National Assembly needs to take a stand and ensure that it doesn’t become a tool for legitimizing unconstitutional actions. History will judge them based on their decisions today.

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3. Judicial Intervention: The judiciary must act swiftly to prevent a dangerous precedent from being set. The courts have the power and responsibility to safeguard the constitution and ensure that no governor is arbitrarily removed from office.

4. Nigerians Must Defend Democracy: All Nigerians, from civil society organizations to political groups, must unite to defend the democracy they’ve worked so hard to build. Rivers State is not a territory to be conquered, and Nigeria is not a dictatorship. The group recalls that even during previous administrations, where emergencies were declared due to insurgency and terrorism, the governors of affected states weren’t removed. Tinubu’s action, therefore, is seen as a new low for the country.