posted 19th March 2025
Reuben Abati: Tinubu Accused of Illegally Usurping Legislative Powers in Rivers State Controversy
Lagos, 19 March 2025 – In a fiery appearance on the Arise News Morning Show today, prominent Nigerian journalist and commentator Dr Reuben Abati launched a scathing critique of President Tinubu, accusing him of overstepping his constitutional authority in a bid to exert control over Rivers State. Dr Abati claimed that Tinubu’s recent proclamation, which asserted that the federal executive would begin making laws for the state, amounted to an “illegal usurpation” of the powers of the legislature—an act he described as an impeachable offence.
Speaking with characteristic conviction, Dr Abati urged the National Assembly to immediately commence impeachment proceedings against the President, arguing that such a move was not only justified but necessary to uphold Nigeria’s democratic framework. “Tinubu has no authority to assume the role of lawmakers,” he said. “This is a clear violation of the separation of powers enshrined in our constitution.”
Dr Abati went further, accusing Tinubu of bias in the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, particularly in relation to Governor Siminalayi Fubara. He asserted that the President lacked the constitutional power to remove Fubara from office through a mere proclamation, referencing Sections 188 and 305 of the Nigerian Constitution as amended. Drawing a historical parallel, Dr Abati noted that former President Goodluck Jonathan, during his tenure, refrained from removing governors in states where he intervened, despite similar tensions.
The outspoken commentator also took aim at the National Assembly, which he described as a “rubber stamp” body, calling on its members to muster the courage to reject Tinubu’s proclamation outright. He suggested that Admiral Ibokette Ibas (rtd), the individual reportedly appointed as sole administrator for Rivers State, should refuse the role to avoid being complicit in what he termed an unconstitutional power grab.
Dr Abati’s remarks come amid growing controversy over Tinubu’s proclamation, with the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) issuing a statement of its own condemning the move as illegal. The NBA’s position has lent weight to the chorus of voices questioning the legitimacy of the President’s actions.
