… SoE, Dangerous Precedent, Threat to Nigeria’s Democracy, Federalism
The Kebetkache Lcadership School has called on President Bola Tinubu and the National Assembly to immediately lift the state of Emergency placed on Rivers State, and restore democratic governance.
In a release signed by the Director, Dr Emem Okon, the school unequivocally condemned the suspension of the democratically elected governor, his deputy,and all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, adding that “it is not only an affront to the constitutional order of the Federal Republic of Nigeria but also undermines the very foundations of democratic governance and the rule of law.”
Dr Okon stressed that under the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), “emergency powers are strictly limited to situations involving war, external aggression, or an actual breakdown of public order and safety that necessitates extraordinary measures.
“Notably, Section 305 does not confer upon the President the authority to unilaterally remove or suspend elected state officials. The suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and state legislators is a clear overreach of executive power and violates the constitutional guarantees that protect the tenure and legitimacy of democratically elected representatives.
“This move sets a dangerous precedent that threatens federalism and the separation of powers, cornerstones of our constitutional democracy,” she said.
Pointing out the implications for democratic governance, Dr Okon said “The imposition of emergency rule in Rivers State is ostensibly justified on grounds of curbing pipeline vandalism and addressing political instability. However, such justifications do not meet the stringent criteria required by the Constitution.
“Instead of safeguarding the welfare and rights of the citizens of Rivers State, the emergency rule has resulted in the suspension of their elected officials, effectively stripping Rivers people of their right to choose their government through an electoral process.
“This intervention not only disrupts the balance between the federal and state governments but also jeopardizes the transparency and accountability that are essential for sustainable development and good governance,” she said.
Dr Okon noted that as an institution dedicated to the training of leaders and the dissemination of development strategies, Kebetkache Leadership School “stands firmly for democratic values, constitutionalism, and the empowerment of communities through informed leadership.
“We believe that true development is achieved when leaders are held accountable and when governance operates within the framework of the law. The recent actions in Rivers State contradict these principles and undermine the progress we have made towards building a just and inclusive society.
“We call upon all stakeholders-government officials, civil society organizations, legal experts, and the citizens of Nigeria to reject this unconstitutional exercise of power.
“It is imnperative that the state of emergency be immediately revoked, and the suspended elected officials be reinstated, restoring the democratic governance structure in Rivers State. Furthermore, we urge the National Assembly and the judiciary to act swiftly in ensuring that no executive overreach continues to threaten the constitutional rights of our people.
“Kebetkache Leadership School remains committed to fostering leadership that is grounded in democratic values and sustainable development strategies. We will continue to advocate for governance that respects the Constitution and upholds the rights of every Nigerian citizen. The current crisis in Rivers State must serve as a wake-up call: true progress can only be achieved through adherence to the rule of law, transparent leadership, and the empowerment of our communities,” she said.
