Prominent politician and elder statesman, Chief Bode George, has strongly criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s decision to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State. Expressing his outrage, Bode George described the move as “recklessness of the highest order”, questioning what Governor Siminalayi Fubara had done to justify such drastic action.
His condemnation adds to the growing opposition from political figures and civil society groups who believe the federal government’s decision is unconstitutional and politically motivated.
Background: The Crisis in Rivers State
The political situation in Rivers State has been tense due to an ongoing power struggle between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, who is now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The crisis has led to divisions in the state legislature, governance disruptions, and widespread political tension.
Amid these conflicts, reports emerged that President Tinubu was considering an emergency rule in the state, allegedly to restore order. However, critics argue that the state is not facing a security crisis severe enough to justify such an extreme measure.
Bode George’s Criticism of Tinubu’s Action
Chief Bode George, a former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), did not hold back in his criticism of the President. He questioned the logic behind declaring a state of emergency, emphasizing that Governor Fubara had not committed any crime to warrant such federal intervention.
In his words:
“This is recklessness of the highest order. What did Fubara do? Why is an elected governor being treated this way? We cannot allow democracy to be trampled upon like this.”
Bode George believes that instead of suspending a democratically elected government, Tinubu should have focused on resolving the crisis through dialogue and constitutional means.
Concerns About Abuse of Power
Many political analysts and opposition figures share Bode George’s concerns, warning that if a state of emergency is imposed in Rivers State, it could set a dangerous precedent for political interference in other states.
According to the Nigerian Constitution, a state of emergency should only be declared in extreme cases, such as war, natural disasters, or a total breakdown of law and order. Critics argue that the Rivers State crisis does not meet these criteria and that Tinubu’s decision is a politically motivated attack on Fubara’s government.
Calls for Dialogue and Constitutional Order
Bode George and other opposition leaders have urged the federal government to reconsider its stance and allow democratic institutions to function without undue interference. They insist that Rivers State lawmakers, party stakeholders, and civil society groups should be allowed to mediate the crisis rather than resorting to emergency rule.
Many also argue that if Tinubu was truly concerned about governance in Rivers, he should have called Wike to order rather than undermining Governor Fubara’s authority.
Public Reactions and Political Fallout
The news of the proposed state of emergency has sparked outrage among Nigerians, particularly Rivers State residents who see it as an attack on their democratic rights. Protests and resistance movements are already gaining momentum, with many calling on the National Assembly and judiciary to intervene.
The PDP and other opposition parties have vowed to challenge the decision, while civil rights groups are mobilizing to prevent what they describe as an illegal takeover of an elected government.
What Happens Next?
The political tension in Rivers State is far from over, and the federal government’s next moves will determine the future of governance in the state. If the state of emergency is formally declared, legal battles and national protests could follow. However, if reason prevails, stakeholders may opt for dialogue to resolve the crisis peacefully.
For now, all eyes are on President Tinubu, as Nigerians await his final decision on Rivers State’s political future. Chief Bode George’s condemnation of President Tinubu’s action highlights the deepening concerns over political interference and democracy in Nigeria. His strong words reflect the frustration of many Nigerians who believe that elected governors should be allowed to govern without federal intimidation. As the situation continues to unfold, the nation watches to see whether democracy and constitutional order will be upheld.
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Written By Fortune Davidson