Rotimi Amaechi, former Governor of Rivers State, has strongly condemned the suspension of the state’s Governor, Deputy Governor, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. According to Amaechi, the decision is unconstitutional and undemocratic, and it represents a dangerous step backward for Nigeria’s democracy.
Amaechi, a key figure in Nigerian politics and former Chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF), voiced his anger over the suspension in a statement, claiming that the actions of President Tinubu effectively suspended democracy in Rivers State and violated the Nigerian Constitution.
Amaechi’s condemnation comes after President Tinubu’s decision to suspend the Governor, Deputy Governor, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly in a move that has sparked significant controversy across the nation. Amaechi’s reaction is one of sharp criticism, as he claims that the President’s actions violate the constitutional rights of the people of Rivers State.
He stated, “Unequivocally, I condemn the rather brazen and unilaterally reckless suspension and removal of the Governor of Rivers State, the Deputy Governor of Rivers State, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”
Amaechi argued that the President’s actions have undermined democratic principles, suggesting that such decisions should not be made by a central authority like the President without following due process outlined in the Nigerian Constitution.
In his statement, Amaechi referenced Section 188 of the Nigerian Constitution, which outlines the procedure for removing a state governor. He emphasized that the Constitution does not allow for the removal or suspension of a governor or elected officials by a presidential fiat, a practice he claims was carried out by Tinubu.
He continued, “Section 188 of the Nigeria Constitution clearly stipulates how a State Governor can be removed from office. And it does not include a fiat declaration, decree, or promulgation by Mr. President. Therefore, he cannot appropriate such powers to himself.”
Amaechi’s concerns also focus on the broader implications for Nigeria’s democratic system. He pointed out that the suspension of democratically elected officials in Rivers State is not just an isolated issue, but rather a clear violation of the Constitution and a direct attack on democracy itself.
He criticized President Tinubu for disregarding the Constitution, saying, “A democratically elected State Governor cannot be removed from office by a proclamation of Mr. President.” This, according to Amaechi, shows a disregard for Nigeria’s foundational laws and an attempt to undermine the democratic process.
The former Governor of Rivers State also highlighted the contradiction in the President’s actions by referencing Section 305 of the Nigerian Constitution, which the President reportedly cited in his announcement. Amaechi argued that even within the interpretation of this section, the suspension of elected officials was an overreach of presidential power, as it did not fall within the scope allowed by the Constitution.
Amaechi also expressed concern that the suspension of elected officials in Rivers State signals an attempt to impose unconstitutional control over the state. He described it as a “brazen attempt at a power grab,” warning that this could set a dangerous precedent for other states across the country.
“The unlawful suspension of elected democratic institutions in my dear Rivers State points to a brazen attempt at power grab in the State by forces and persons who do not have such Constitutional powers,” Amaechi stated. He further suggested that the suspension was part of an orchestrated plot by some individuals to impose their control over the people of Rivers State without legal authority.
The former Governor’s remarks suggest that he believes the suspension is not just a random act but part of a broader strategy by certain political forces to destabilize the governance of Rivers State. This claim has added fuel to the fire, with many politicians and citizens now questioning the real motivations behind the decision.
Amaechi’s statement is not just a condemnation of the President’s actions; it is also a call to all Nigerians, especially political leaders, to speak out against what he sees as a dangerous erosion of democratic values. He urged all individuals of conscience to rise up against what he described as an “audacious violation of our Constitution and rape of our democracy.”
He further appealed to politicians across party lines to stand together and reject what he called an illegitimate exercise of power. “Politicians across divides should speak up; rise to halt our nation’s descent into totalitarianism,” he said, urging State Governors and Legislators to take a stand and protect the democratic process.
Amaechi also directed his remarks to the National Assembly, calling on them to reject this unlawful suspension of elected officials. As a former State Governor and NGF Chairman, he expressed his belief that governors could play an essential role in halting the erosion of democracy and reversing the President’s actions.
While Amaechi’s statement reflects his strong opposition to the suspension of Rivers State officials, he commended the actions of Governors who have already spoken out against the move. He praised those who have voiced their concerns, noting that their courage in speaking up for the Constitution is crucial at this moment.
In his closing remarks, Amaechi warned of the long-term risks of allowing such actions to go unchecked. He stated, “The suspension is a very dangerous affront on Nigeria’s Constitution and democracy,” stressing that the move by President Tinubu could have far-reaching consequences for Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
The suspension of the Governor, Deputy Governor, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly has sparked heated debates across the country. While some defend the President’s actions, citing constitutional provisions and the need for stability, others like Amaechi view the decision as an unlawful overreach that undermines Nigeria’s democratic system.
The case has drawn the attention of Nigerians from various sectors, including politicians, legal experts, and civil society groups. Many are now questioning whether the President’s actions were legal and what impact this will have on the future of democratic governance in the country.
