PDP BoT Condemns State Of Emergency In Rivers State: A Threat To Nigerian Democracy

Strong Rejection of State of Emergency

Let me tell you something: the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is not sitting idly by while President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declares a state of emergency in Rivers State. In their words, it's a "gross violation of the Nigerian Constitution." And they're not wrong. The PDP BoT is standing firm against what they see as a direct attack on democracy.

You might be wondering why this matters. Well, here's the thing: the National Assembly didn't just rubber-stamp this decision. They ratified it through a voice vote instead of the required two-thirds majority. That's a big deal. It's like skipping the rules because you're in a hurry. And in a democracy, skipping the rules is never okay.

Adolphus Wabara Speaks Out

In a powerful statement issued on Sunday, Adolphus Wabara, the Chairman of the PDP BoT and a former Senate President, demanded immediate reversal of the emergency rule. He wasn't mincing words either. Wabara called the move a "gross violation" of Nigeria's Constitution, something that "could only be imagined during a military era." That's a strong statement, and it's clear that he sees this as a step backward for democracy.

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He emphasized that declaring emergency rule and suspending the governor, deputy governor, and all elected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly isn't just unconstitutional; it's a breach of democratic norms. It's like taking a sledgehammer to the foundation of our Republic, and that's not something we can ignore.

Slamming the National Assembly

But it doesn't stop there. Wabara also took the National Assembly to task. He criticized them for approving the state of emergency through a voice vote. Can you believe that? The legislature, which is supposed to be the guardian of our Constitution, didn't even follow the proper procedure. Instead of ensuring a constitutional two-thirds majority, they went with a voice vote. That's not just a procedural error; it's a betrayal of the people's trust.

Here's what the statement said: "The Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, vehemently, and in very strong terms, condemns President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, suspending the democratically-elected Governor, Deputy Governor, and members of the State House of Assembly. His decision to replace them with a sole Administrator is undemocratic and alien to our Constitution."

"This action is a gross violation of Nigeria’s Constitution – the foundational legal document that guarantees the rights of Nigerians to participate in the democratic process. It’s an attack on the very essence of our Republic. It’s an action that deserves the strongest condemnation and corrective action by all well-meaning Nigerians, the judiciary, civil society, and the international community."

Why This Matters

Now, let's break this down. The Constitution under Section 7(1) clearly states that each state should have a government formed through elections. The people of Rivers State exercised their democratic rights and elected their leaders. These leaders weren't appointed by the President or anyone else; they were chosen by the people. The President's unilateral suspension of these officials is a direct breach of the people's will. It's like ignoring the voice of the people because it doesn't align with your agenda.

The PDP BoT acknowledged that the President has the power to declare a state of emergency, but it's not limitless. According to Section 305 of the Constitution, this power is only valid in specific circumstances like war, insurrection, or situations threatening the nation's integrity. The situation in Rivers State doesn't meet these criteria. So, the President's decision is not only unwarranted but also an abuse of power.

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President Tinubu's Hypocrisy

Here's the kicker: President Tinubu, who strongly opposed the emergency rule imposed by former President Goodluck Jonathan in 2013, is now applying the same measure he once condemned. How does that make sense? It's like saying one thing and doing the exact opposite. This isn't just hypocrisy; it's a well-orchestrated plan to take over Rivers State. It's a veiled plot to install APC-friendly officials who will serve the President's interests rather than the people's.

The PDP BoT pointed out that power in a democracy belongs to the people, not to the whims of the executive. When the people of Rivers State chose their representatives, they entrusted them with the responsibility to govern according to their wishes and the Constitution. The President's actions have disrupted that process and denied the citizens of Rivers State their constitutional right to self-governance. This is a dangerous precedent that could spread across the country, and it's something all Nigerians should reject, regardless of political affiliation.

Biased Accusations

Let's talk about bias. The PDP BoT accused President Tinubu of unfairly blaming Governor Siminalayi Fubara for the crisis in Rivers State while shielding others involved. It's like pointing fingers at one person while ignoring the rest of the room. How is that fair? If the President's allies are part of the problem, why isn't he holding them accountable? It's clear that the President is playing favorites, and that's not how democracy works.

The PDP BoT also questioned the President's accusation that Governor Fubara failed to prevent pipeline explosions when the security agencies are under federal control. The Governor isn't the Grand Commander or the Chief of Defense Staff. The President is looking for excuses to justify his dictatorial actions, and that's not okay.

Constitutional Concerns

Finally, the PDP BoT raised concerns about the constitutionality of the President's pronouncement that the Sole Administrator he appointed for Rivers State will "be free to formulate regulations." Is this just a ploy to gain illegal access to Rivers' funds? The National Assembly's approval via a voice vote instead of a constitutional two-thirds majority is another travesty of justice. It's undemocratic and undermines the Legislative Arm of Government.

The PDP BoT urged the National Assembly to protect Nigeria's democracy from the Executive's strangulation. They must defend the rule of law and uphold the Constitution as the supreme legal authority. Power belongs to the people, and it's time for everyone to remember that.

In conclusion, the PDP BoT expressed solidarity with Governor Fubara and the people of Rivers State. They called on all Nigerians to stand together and defend our democracy. As they said, "Members of the PDP Board of Trustees, join the PDP Governors Forum, and the NWC to stand in solidarity with His Excellency, Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State, and the good people of Rivers State at this very difficult and trying moment of the state’s political history." Let's make sure democracy wins.