Emergency Rule In Rivers: Coalition Reports Nigerian Govt To African Union

An amalgam of Nigerian professionals and politicians have reported the federal government of Nigeria to the African Union (AU) over the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

The group sees the federal government’s action as unconstitutional, alleging that the suspension of an elected Governor and House of Assembly is inimical to democratic principles.

This was conveyed in a letter addressed to AU Commission Chairperson Alhaji Mahmoud Ali Youssouf where the coalition warned that the move breached Nigeria’s constitution and also threatened democracy across Africa.

The petition was signed by Professor Senator Opeyemi Ola, Professor Adah George, Rt. Hon. Dr. James Oloko, and Dr. Mrs. Evelyn E. Ogolime, who urged the AU to intervene and prevent what they described as an abuse of power.

“Nigeria is expected to be a shining example of democratic governance in Africa. The government’s decision to suspend the democratically elected Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminilayi Fubara, and the State House of Assembly, is a clear violation of the Constitution and an affront to democratic principles” The petition read.

“Section 305 of the Constitution, which the President cited as the basis for his action, does not grant him the power to suspend or remove elected officials. The Constitution is clear on the grounds for removing a governor, which is explicitly stated in Section 188. The president’s action is a blatant disregard for the Constitution and the democratic process.

“This action is not only a threat to democracy in Nigeria but also sets a dangerous precedent for the suppression of democratic institutions and the rule of law in Africa. It is imperative that the African Union Commission takes immediate action to address this situation and ensure that democratic principles are upheld.” It continued.

The group emphasized the wider implications of the government’s action, they state that it threatens the autonomy of states under Nigeria’s federal system, calling on The AU to send a fact-finding mission to Rivers State to assess the situation and ensure democratic institutions were protected.

“We are also concerned about the potential consequences of this action on the stability of Nigeria and the African region. The suspension of democratic institutions and the imposition of emergency rule could lead to widespread unrest, violence, and instability. In addition, this action undermines the principles of federalism and the autonomy of states in Nigeria. The President’s decision to suspend the Governor and the State House of Assembly is a clear infringement on the powers of the state government and a violation of the principle of separation of powers.

“We urge you to prevail upon President Tinubu to immediately lift the State of Emergency in Rivers State and restore the democratically elected government. We request that the African Union Commission take concrete steps to ensure that Nigeria, as a member state, upholds the principles of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. And sends a fact-finding mission to Rivers State to investigate the circumstances surrounding the declaration of a state of emergency and the suspension of democratic institutions.” The Petition concluded.