Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, has strongly criticized President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, calling it “unconstitutional and reckless.” Obi condemned the move as a blatant disregard for the rule of law, warning that it could destabilize the country’s democratic progress.
In a statement made on Wednesday via X (formerly Twitter), Obi described the declaration as an attempt to tighten the federal government’s grip on power at all costs, equating it to a backdoor imposition of martial law in a strategic part of the country. He argued that the political situation in Rivers State did not warrant such drastic action, especially the suspension of Governor Siminlayi Fubara, his deputy, and state lawmakers.
Obi criticized the interpretation of Section 305(1) of the 1999 Constitution, which governs the declaration of a state of emergency, stating that it was a biased and unlawful move. He emphasized that a state of emergency should not be used to unilaterally remove an elected governor and called the decision a violation of democratic norms and good governance.
He further warned that such a move would set a dangerous precedent, potentially undermining the separation of powers, and fostering a culture of impunity. Obi expressed concern that the arbitrary removal of elected officials could escalate Nigeria’s already existing issues with electoral integrity and political instability.
In light of this, Obi urged the National Assembly and all relevant stakeholders to challenge the state of emergency, asserting that allowing it to stand would further erode the foundations of democracy and the rule of law in Nigeria.