Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has vehemently opposed the recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, calling it an unlawful move that undermines Nigeria’s democracy. In a strongly worded statement in his biweekly newsletter, The Business of Governance Issue 110, published Thursday evening, Makinde condemned President Bola Tinubu’s decision to suspend the state’s executive and legislative arms, labeling it a direct attack on democratic principles.
Makinde’s criticism follows Tinubu’s proclamation on Tuesday, which saw the suspension of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and members of the State House of Assembly for six months. In their place, Tinubu appointed Vice Admiral Ibok-ete Ibas (retd) as the Sole Administrator of the state.
Makinde, a key figure in the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), argued that this action was a gross violation of Nigeria’s democratic framework. “I stand today to say that the declaration of the state of emergency in Rivers State and the suspension of the executive and legislative arms of government by the presidency is an illegality that right-thinking members of society must oppose,” Makinde declared. He stressed that democracy, which has been carefully nurtured over the years, must be safeguarded at all costs.
The governor called on all Nigerians to oppose this “suspension of democracy,” regardless of political affiliations. He emphasized the importance of standing up for fairness, equity, and justice, urging citizens to speak out whenever they see threats to the country’s democratic progress. “Our democratic tenets must never be trifled with, no matter our personal feelings and loyalties,” Makinde added.
Makinde also expressed his pride in the PDP for taking swift action. He revealed that the PDP Governors’ Forum convened an emergency meeting where they unanimously decided to challenge President Tinubu’s actions in court. “We cannot fold our hands and watch the democracy we built for almost three decades be trampled upon,” Makinde stated, signaling the party’s determination to fight for constitutional integrity.
The strong stance from Makinde and the PDP highlights the growing opposition to President Tinubu’s controversial move in Rivers State, with the potential for a significant legal and political battle ahead.
