CountryFirst Movement Condemns State of Emergency Declaration in Rivers, Says President Tinubu Owes Nigerian Constitution Apology
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In a bold and impassioned statement, Prof. Chris Mustapha Nwaokobia Jnr, Convener of the COUNTRYFIRST MOVEMENT, has criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent declaration of a State of Emergency in Rivers State.
The advocacy group, known for its commitment to good governance, has described the President’s actions as unconstitutional and a dangerous precedent for democracy in Nigeria.
Prof. Nwaokobia began his statement with a call for accountability, stating, “The time is always right to do RIGHT. And no matter how far gone on the wrong track, greatness is in the ability to turn back and say sorry.”
He argued that while Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution allows for the declaration of a State of Emergency to restore law and order, it does not grant the President the authority to suspend elected officials. “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu owes the Constitution an apology,” he asserted.
The advocacy group expressed deep concern over the suspension of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his Deputy, and members of the State House of Assembly.
Prof. Nwaokobia described these actions as a violation of constitutional provisions and called on the President to reverse his decision. “The President must be humble enough to undo the wrong,” he said.
The statement also took aim at the influence of Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike, accusing him of being a divisive figure in Rivers State politics.
Prof. Nwaokobia alleged that Wike’s actions have contributed to the current crisis and criticized the President for aligning with him. “To Mr. President, Mr. Wike, the agent provocateur of the confusion and commotion that Rivers State has become, does no wrong,” he remarked.
Drawing comparisons to past administrations, Prof. Nwaokobia highlighted that former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan did not suspend elected officials during states of emergency. He questioned why Vice President Kashim Shettima, who was a Governor during a similar crisis, did not advise against the current approach. “Were his Court-jesters not aware that under the Administration of Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, the Courts lampooned and overturned the Declaration of a State of Emergency where elected Political operators were suspended?” he asked.
The COUNTRYFIRST MOVEMENT warned of the potential consequences of the President’s actions, both for Rivers State and for Nigeria’s democracy as a whole.
“History will judge you harshly if you do not seize the moment,” Prof. Nwaokobia cautioned. He urged the President to prioritize the nation’s unity and democratic principles over partisan interests, stating, “Now is the time to do right, and now is the time to act right.”
The statement concluded with a plea for President Tinubu to restore democratic institutions in Rivers State and to seek proper counsel moving forward.
“Mr. President, please do not allow Wike’s greed to unlock the anger of the Niger Delta people,” Prof. Nwaokobia warned. “Seek proper Counsel, and walk the path worthy of great Leaders by rescinding the unconstitutional suspension of the elected Political Structures in Rivers State.”
As the controversy continues to unfold, the COUNTRYFIRST MOVEMENT’s statement serves as a stark reminder of the importance of upholding constitutional principles and democratic values in governance.
This post has already been read at least 11198 times!
