President Tinubu's State Of Emergency In Rivers: A Constitutional Debate

Political Storm: CUPP Challenges Tinubu's Emergency Declaration

Let me tell you something, folks. The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) is not happy. They’ve come out swinging against President Bola Tinubu’s decision to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State. They’re calling it a "constitutional assault," and they’re right to raise their voices because this isn’t just about Rivers—it’s about the future of democracy in Nigeria.

According to reports from Vanguard, Peter Ameh, the National Secretary of CUPP, spoke up loud and clear on Tuesday night. He slammed Tinubu’s actions, saying they could have serious consequences for the integrity of Nigeria’s democracy. Now, hear me out—this isn’t just political drama. This is about the principles that hold our nation together.

Tinubu's Move: A Threat to Democratic Principles?

Ameh made it clear that the president’s decision doesn’t sit well with the Constitution. By suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara and appointing a sole administrator, Tinubu, according to Ameh, has crossed a line. This isn’t just about Rivers State. It’s about setting a precedent that could affect every state in the country. If we let this slide, where does it stop?

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Here’s the thing: the Nigerian Constitution is pretty straightforward about how a governor can be removed. It outlines specific processes—impeachment by the State House of Assembly, resignation, death, or completion of tenure. Nowhere does it give the president the authority to suspend a governor or declare a state of emergency for political reasons. This selective application of emergency powers in Rivers while ignoring other states with similar issues raises eyebrows. Why Rivers? Why now?

Executive Overreach: A Dangerous Precedent

Ameh didn’t mince words when he criticized Tinubu’s actions as a blatant overreach of executive power. He warned that removing an elected official at will sets a dangerous precedent. It’s not just about Rivers State—it’s about the broader principles of the rule of law, the separation of powers, and the protection of citizens’ rights. If we don’t challenge this now, we risk creating a culture where presidents can remove elected officials who don’t play by their rules. That’s not democracy; that’s dictatorship.

Let me break it down for you. If we allow this to happen without a fight, we’re undermining the very foundation of our democracy. It’s not just about one state or one governor—it’s about the integrity of the system. The Constitution is there for a reason, and we can’t let anyone, no matter how powerful, trample on it.

Blame Game: Who’s Really at Fault?

Ameh also pointed out something interesting. While Tinubu blamed Governor Fubara for the political crisis in Rivers, he conveniently left out the role of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike. This omission raises questions about the president’s impartiality. Is Tinubu taking sides? If so, what does that mean for the credibility of his administration?

By ignoring Wike’s role in the crisis, Tinubu’s administration has created an impression of bias. This perceived favoritism could escalate tensions in Rivers State and beyond. It’s not just about politics; it’s about fairness and justice. If the president is seen as playing favorites, how can he expect the Nigerian people to trust him?

A Call to Action: Protecting Our Democracy

In his closing remarks, Ameh urged Nigerians to stand up for the Constitution. He described Tinubu’s actions as a "brazen attempt to undermine our democracy." This isn’t just political rhetoric—it’s a call to action. The ball is in our court, and the choice is ours. Will we defend our democracy, or will we let it erode under our noses?

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Ameh left us with a powerful message: “The judiciary and the Nigerian people have a responsibility. Will we stand up for what’s right, or will we sit back and watch as our democracy is dismantled by those sworn to protect it? The choice is ours.”

So, what do you think? Is this a legitimate concern, or is it just political noise? One thing’s for sure—this is a moment that could define the future of Nigeria’s democracy. Let’s not take it lightly.