Renowned lawyer, actor, and politician Kenneth Okonkwo has strongly condemned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s alleged plan to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State. Describing the move as “illegal and unconstitutional”, Okonkwo argued that such an action violates the principles of democracy and the rule of law.
His statement adds to the growing opposition from political leaders, legal experts, and civil society groups, who believe that the situation in Rivers State does not warrant emergency rule.
The Political Crisis in Rivers State
Rivers State has been embroiled in a political crisis due to a power struggle between the incumbent Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, who is now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The conflict has led to a division in the state legislature, political unrest, and allegations of interference by the federal government. Amid these tensions, reports emerged that President Tinubu was considering imposing a state of emergency, allegedly to restore stability.
Kenneth Okonkwo’s Legal Argument
Reacting to the development, Kenneth Okonkwo, a seasoned legal practitioner and former spokesperson of the Labour Party (LP), dismissed the move as unconstitutional.
In his words:
“A state of emergency is only declared when there is a total breakdown of law and order. What is happening in Rivers State is a political dispute, not a security crisis. Any attempt to impose emergency rule is illegal and unconstitutional.”
According to the 1999 Nigerian Constitution, a state of emergency can only be declared under specific conditions such as war, natural disasters, or a total collapse of governance. Okonkwo insists that Rivers State does not meet these conditions and that President Tinubu lacks the power to suspend a democratically elected government.
Calls for Rule of Law
Kenneth Okonkwo urged the federal government to follow due process and respect democratic institutions. He warned that bypassing constitutional provisions to settle political disputes sets a dangerous precedent for Nigeria’s democracy.
“If the President wants peace in Rivers State, he should encourage dialogue, not unconstitutional actions that could plunge the country into further crisis.”
He also called on the National Assembly and the judiciary to stand firm against any unconstitutional move that could threaten Nigeria’s democracy.
Growing Opposition to Emergency Rule
Kenneth Okonkwo is not alone in his opposition. Other political leaders, legal experts, and civil rights organizations have criticized the alleged plan to impose a state of emergency.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), which controls Rivers State, has also rejected the move, warning that it could lead to a constitutional crisis. Meanwhile, opposition figures like Bode George and Dele Momodu have accused President Tinubu of political favoritism, arguing that he should have called Wike to order instead of targeting Fubara’s government.
Public Reactions and Legal Implications
The controversy has sparked outrage among Nigerians, especially those in Rivers State, who see the alleged plan as an attack on their democratic rights. Protests and legal battles may follow if the federal government goes ahead with the state of emergency declaration.
Many legal analysts believe that if challenged in court, such a declaration would likely be overturned, as it lacks constitutional backing.
What Happens Next?
The political crisis in Rivers State is still unfolding, and President Tinubu’s next decision will be crucial. If he backs down, it may signal a return to constitutional governance. However, if he insists on emergency rule, the National Assembly, judiciary, and civil society groups may challenge it.
For now, Nigerians are watching closely to see if the rule of law will prevail or if the country’s democracy will face another major test. Kenneth Okonkwo’s reaction highlights the growing concerns over political interference and democratic governance in Nigeria. His strong stance against Tinubu’s proposed state of emergency reflects the broader debate on the limits of presidential power and constitutional rule. As the situation continues to unfold, the fate of Rivers State’s elected government remains uncertain.
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Written By Fortune Davidson