Amaechi, who previously served as Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, commended governors who have opposed the suspension, emphasizing the need for a collective stand against what he sees as an unconstitutional power grab.
Port Harcourt, Nigeria – Former Governor of Rivers State, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, has strongly criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s decision to suspend key elected officials in Rivers State, describing it as unconstitutional and a direct assault on democracy.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Amaechi expressed outrage over the removal of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, arguing that the action violates the Nigerian Constitution. According to him, the President lacks the authority to unilaterally remove an elected governor, as the Constitution clearly outlines due process for such actions under Section 188.
“The suspension of two vital democratic institutions in Rivers State is a blatant overreach and an outright violation of the Constitution. A state governor cannot be removed through a mere presidential proclamation,” Amaechi stated.
The former Minister of Transportation further accused certain political forces of attempting to hijack power in the state, warning that such unconstitutional moves threaten Nigeria’s democratic foundations. He called on Nigerians, political leaders, and the National Assembly to resist what he termed a dangerous precedent that could undermine governance across the country.
“I urge state governors, legislators, and all defenders of democracy to speak up now before our nation slides into totalitarian rule. This illegality must not stand,” he warned.
Amaechi, who previously served as Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, commended governors who have opposed the suspension, emphasizing the need for a collective stand against what he sees as an unconstitutional power grab.
He concluded by calling on Nigerians to remain vigilant in defending democracy, stating that the unfolding crisis in Rivers State must not be allowed to set a precedent for future constitutional violations.
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