Atiku Abubakar, the former Vice President of Nigeria, has stated that the suspension of Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, was unlawful and remains so, despite his recent reinstatement. In a Facebook post on Thursday, Abubakar expressed that there is nothing to celebrate about the governor’s reinstatement by President Bola Tinubu.
The situation in Rivers State began on March 18, when President Tinubu declared a state of emergency due to a prolonged political crisis. As a result, Governor Fubara, his deputy, and all state lawmakers were suspended for six months. Upon the expiration of this initial suspension, President Tinubu lifted it on Wednesday, allowing the leaders to resume their duties.
Abubakar contends that the president does not have the authority to suspend democratically elected officials. He explained that the suspension of Governor Fubara and the state’s House of Assembly was unconstitutional from the outset and remains so. According to Abubakar, President Tinubu’s actions demonstrate a lack of respect for democratic principles and the rule of law.
The Rivers State political crisis has sparked intense debate about the limits of presidential power and the importance of upholding democratic norms. The situation has significant implications for the country’s political stability and the balance of power between the executive and legislative branches of government.
In the aftermath of the governor’s reinstatement, attention will be focused on the next steps for Rivers State and the potential consequences of President Tinubu’s actions. The international community will be watching closely to see how the situation unfolds and how Nigeria’s democratic institutions respond to the challenge. As the country navigates this complex situation, it is essential to prioritize the rule of law, respect for democratic principles, and the protection of human rights.
