posted 19th March 2025
Peter Obi Condemns Tinubu’s Removal of Rivers State Governor as Constitutional Crisis Deepens
Nigeria, 19 March 2025 – Nigeria’s political landscape has been thrown into turmoil following President Bola Tinubu’s unilateral decision to sack Rivers State Governor Similaya Fubara, a move branded as both unconstitutional and reckless by critics, including prominent opposition figure Peter Obi. The controversial action, coupled with the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, has ignited fears of a return to lawlessness and a severe setback to the nation’s 26-year democratic journey.
Opponents argue that the President’s decision flouts the rule of law, exposing a troubling readiness to undermine Nigeria’s democratic foundations. “By disregarding the rule of law, the President has shown a dangerous willingness to trample on democracy,” a prominent critic stated, echoing widespread sentiments. The imposition of a state of emergency has been slammed as an audacious power grab, with many viewing it as a thinly veiled attempt to impose martial rule through the back door in a strategically vital region of the federation.
The political unrest in Rivers State, observers say, falls far short of justifying such an extreme measure. Legal experts have pointed to a skewed interpretation of Section 305(1) of the 1999 Constitution, which governs the declaration of a state of emergency but does not grant the President authority to unilaterally remove an elected governor. “This is not just reckless—it’s a clear attempt to tighten grip on power at all costs,” one analyst remarked, warning of the “implied negatives” of such a precedent.
The move has drawn fierce condemnation as an unconstitutional overreach, with critics arguing it threatens the very pillars of democracy, including the rule of law and the separation of powers. Far from aligning with democratic norms or good governance, the decision is seen as a calculated step serving narrow interests rather than the collective welfare of Rivers State residents or Nigerians at large.
Nigeria’s democratic journey has already been marred by challenges, including widespread electoral irregularities, non-compliance with qualification rules, and allegations of massive rigging. The arbitrary removal of an elected official, critics warn, risks tipping the nation into a “state of nature and anarchy.” One commentator urged urgent action: “I appeal to the National Assembly and all stakeholders not to allow this to stand, as it only deepens the culture of impunity and brigand already threatening our democracy.”
If left unchallenged, this precedent could embolden further abuses of power, fostering a climate where elected officials are stripped of their mandates at the whim of the executive. As the crisis unfolds, Nigeria stands at a crossroads, with its democratic integrity hanging in the balance. The National Assembly and judiciary now face mounting pressure to intervene and restore constitutional order before the damage becomes irreparable.
