Former presidential candidate Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso has criticized President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, calling it an unconstitutional move that threatens Nigeria’s democratic principles.
In a statement posted on his official X platform, Kwankwaso expressed deep concern over the president’s decision to suspend Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and all elected members of the state legislature.
He warned that the action sets a dangerous precedent and brings the military uncomfortably close to political power.
“I am perturbed by the unilateral decision of President Bola Tinubu to suspend Governor Similayi Fubara of Rivers State, his Deputy and all elected state legislators from office. The legislature has the responsibility to hold the executive responsible and not always play to its tune. It is therefore appalling to see this 10th Assembly become more rubberstamp than any of its predecessors,” Kwankwaso wrote.
He also condemned the National Assembly for quickly endorsing the president’s proclamation, arguing that the legislature failed in its duty to check executive overreach. “More disturbing is the unilateral decision by both chambers of the National Assembly to ratify the president’s proclamation. I had hoped that the legislators would not add salt to injury by passing this illegality. The Constitution is clear on the method of voting on issues of such importance, and the decision to use the voice vote in deciding this is not consistent with the proper procedures and transparency.”
Kwankwaso further urged the judiciary to play its role in upholding constitutional order, calling on legal institutions to remain impartial and resist external influence. “Our judiciary also has the very important task of balancing the balance of power by being fair to all parties in any conflict. I believe that the custodians of the Law in Nigeria need to wake up to their responsibility of calming nerves by being as just as possible, with judgments devoid of any hint of external influence.”
The former Kano State governor warned against involving the military in governance, noting that Nigeria has worked hard to establish democratic stability since its return to civilian rule in 1999. “Moreover, for a politician that prides himself as a consistent advocate and defender of democracy in our country, the decision by President Tinubu to draft in the military into a position of leadership is hugely dangerous to the progress we have made in the 26 years of democratic journey. Bola Tinubu should know better than bringing the military closer to power after the good work President Olusegun Obasanjo did of confining them to their barracks while he led this country.”
President Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers following reports of a major attack on the Trans-Niger Pipeline, which significantly disrupted crude oil production. In a nationwide address, he accused the state government of failing to act against growing security threats, including acts of vandalism by militants.
However, legal experts and opposition figures have questioned the legality of the move.
Kwankwaso echoed these concerns, asserting that the decision could lead to a culture of impunity.
“I am of the view that the political situation on the ground in Rivers does not justify such a flawed interpretation of section 305(1) of the 1999 constitution. The action constitutes an unconstitutional overdrive, and it could foster a culture of impunity if unchecked.”
