“The unilateral decision of President Bola Tinubu to remove Governor Siminalayi Fubara from office is not only unconstitutional but also reckless. It has plunged us back into a state of lawlessness, undoing 26 years of democratic progress,” Obi stated.
He further criticized the president’s disregard for the rule of law, saying it sets a dangerous precedent and threatens democracy, governance, and the separation of powers.
Biased Interpretation of the Constitution
Obi argued that the political situation in Rivers State does not justify such an extreme measure, calling it a misinterpretation of Section 305(1) of the 1999 Constitution.
“The declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers is not just reckless—it is a deliberate power grab. This move amounts to an unconstitutional backdoor imposition of martial rule on a key part of the federation,” he said.
He also noted that a state of emergency does not grant the president the power to unilaterally remove an elected governor, emphasizing that such actions erode democratic norms and good governance.
Call to Action Against Impunity
Obi warned that Nigeria is already struggling with electoral irregularities and disregard for democratic principles, and arbitrarily removing elected officials will push the country toward anarchy.
He urged the National Assembly and stakeholders to reject this unconstitutional act, warning that allowing it to stand would only deepen impunity and lawlessness.
Mixed Reactions to Tinubu’s Declaration
Tinubu’s state of emergency declaration, announced in a nationwide broadcast on Tuesday, led to the suspension of Governor Fubara, his deputy, and the state assembly for six months.
The president appointed Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (rtd) as administrator to oversee the state’s affairs during this period.
The move has sparked widespread debate, with PDP’s 2023 presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, calling it political manipulation. The PDP and the PDP Governors Forum have also rejected the decision.