PDP Slams Tinubu Over Rivers State Emergency Declaration: A Blow To Democracy?

Tinubu's Move Criticized as a Power Play

Listen up, folks. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is not holding back when it comes to President Bola Tinubu’s recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State. In their view, this isn't just a political move—it's a calculated attempt to seize control of the state and undermine Nigeria's democracy. That's right, they're calling it what they see: a power grab.

The PDP has been crystal clear about their stance. They argue that President Tinubu doesn't have the legal authority to oust Governor Siminalayi Fubara, a leader who was democratically elected by the people of Rivers State. Replacing him with someone who hasn't been chosen by the electorate? That's not just questionable—it’s unconstitutional, according to the PDP.

Debo Ologunagba, the PDP's National Publicity Secretary, dropped this bombshell in a statement released after Tinubu's nationwide address on Tuesday. The declaration came amid the ongoing political turmoil in Rivers State, but the PDP insists that this action goes against the very fabric of Nigeria's democracy.

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Constitutional Violation or Legitimate Action?

Here's the kicker: the PDP is accusing Tinubu of blatantly disregarding the 1999 Constitution. They believe his decision to declare a state of emergency is a direct assault on the principles of democracy that Nigerians hold dear. It's not just about Rivers State—it's about the future of governance in Nigeria.

According to the PDP, the President’s move to suspend Governor Fubara and install Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (rtd) as the administrator is nothing short of an attack on the rights of Rivers State residents. They argue that this isn't just about political rivalry; it's about undermining the will of the people and forcing an undemocratic rule on a region that deserves better.

In their statement, the PDP minced no words: "This unconstitutional declaration by President Tinubu is a blatant attack on our nation's democracy and a violation of the democratic rights of the people of Rivers State. It's a clear attempt at state capture, the culmination of a well-oiled plot to take over Rivers State for the APC."

Not Following the Rules

Now, let's talk about procedure. The PDP claims that Tinubu didn't follow the necessary steps outlined in the Constitution to declare a state of emergency. They're not just making noise here—they're pointing out that the President can't act alone in such matters. The National Assembly must approve any declaration of emergency, and skipping this step makes the entire process illegitimate.

Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution is clear on this point. The President is required to send copies of the proclamation to the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives. These leaders are then tasked with convening their respective Houses to consider the situation and decide whether to approve the proclamation. Skipping this crucial step? That's a major no-no.

The PDP warns that ignoring these procedures is a recipe for disaster. "This unwarranted imposition of emergency rule in Rivers State is part of a larger plot to impose a siege mentality across Nigeria, decimate opposition, and turn the country into a one-party state," they argue. It's a chilling thought, and one that demands attention from all Nigerians.

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A Threat to National Stability

But the concerns don't stop at Rivers State. The PDP warns that Tinubu's declaration could destabilize the entire nation. Declaring a state of emergency without proper justification or following the correct procedures? That's a recipe for chaos, not stability.

They urge Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (rtd) to tread carefully. As the newly appointed administrator, he has a responsibility to uphold the Constitution and ensure that democracy remains intact. "Nigeria is not under military rule," the PDP reminds us. "Governance should not be by appointment but by the will of the people."

In conclusion, the PDP is sending a strong message: Tinubu's actions are not just unconstitutional—they're a threat to the peace and stability of the entire nation. As Nigerians watch these developments unfold, one thing is clear: the future of democracy in Rivers State—and perhaps the rest of the country—hangs in the balance.