Constitutional Breach Sparks Democracy Threat, Urges National Resistance
Political Power Grab in Rivers: Amaechi Blasts Tinubu’s ‘Unconstitutional’ Move
Port Harcourt, Nigeria – Former Rivers State Governor Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi has sparked a political storm, accusing President Bola Tinubu of orchestrating an “unconstitutional power grab” following the controversial suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the Rivers State House of Assembly. The move, which has been widely condemned, has ignited nationwide debates on executive overreach and Nigeria’s democratic integrity.
Tinubu’s “Illegal” Suspension of Fubara: Amaechi’s Constitutional Argument
Amaechi, who also served as Nigeria’s Transportation Minister and chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), strongly criticized Tinubu’s actions, citing Section 188 of the Nigerian Constitution.
“Only a legislative impeachment process—not presidential fiat—can remove elected officials,” Amaechi stated, calling Tinubu’s decision a “rape of democracy.” Legal experts warn that this precedent could set a dangerous tone for Nigeria’s democratic system. Amaechi urged the National Assembly and state governors to “resist tyranny” and defend the rule of law.
Emergency Rule or Power Grab? Tinubu’s Section 305 Controversy
Critics argue that President Tinubu misapplied Section 305 of the Constitution, which is intended for security crises, to justify the suspension of Rivers’ government. Amaechi condemned the move as a “brazen violation” that lacks legal standing, asserting that unnamed “political forces” are manipulating the crisis for their own benefit.
“Declaring emergency rule to suspend elected arms of government is dictatorship,” he declared, urging Nigerians to “reject this illegality.”
Democracy Under Threat: Amaechi’s Call to Action
Amid growing concerns of democratic backsliding, Amaechi has called on Nigerians to stand up for constitutional governance. “Tinubu’s actions mirror military-era tactics,” he warned, while commending governors who have spoken against the suspension. Political analysts believe this crisis could further divide Nigeria’s already polarized political landscape, with the hashtag #SaveRiversDemocracy trending across social media.
Reactions & Implications
National Assembly’s Response:
The National Assembly faces mounting pressure to intervene, with lawmakers divided along party lines. While some defend Tinubu’s move as necessary for stability, others warn of its unconstitutional implications.
Public Outcry:
Protests have erupted across Port Harcourt, with civil society groups demanding that Tinubu reverse the suspension. Many see the move as a direct assault on Nigeria’s federal system and democratic values.
International Scrutiny:
The European Union (EU) and the United States have issued statements urging respect for Nigeria’s constitutional processes. International observers warn that the crisis could harm Nigeria’s democratic reputation on the global stage.
Why This Matters
This political crisis is a significant test of Nigeria’s democratic resilience. Amaechi’s allegations of executive overreach add to mounting concerns about Tinubu’s governance style. Legal battles are expected, and the outcome could shape the political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections. As tensions escalate, Rivers State remains at the heart of Nigeria’s constitutional integrity debate.
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