The African Action Congress has condemned President Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, calling it a “coup against Nigerians”. They criticize the action for undermining democracy and the judiciary, equating it to hypocrisy. The party warns of escalating dictatorship perceptions in Nigeria and holds both Tinubu and Wike accountable for the crisis. The situation is exacerbated by political rivalries and accusations against judicial bias.
The African Action Congress (AAC) has criticized President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State. They describe this action as a “coup staged against Nigerians” and a significant threat to democratic values. The party’s statement highlights concerns that Tinubu’s regime is systematically dismantling the constitutional governance of the country.
AAC’s National Publicity Secretary, Femi Adeyeye, condemned the declaration as “cowardly” and a blatant attack on the rule of law. The party contends that this move signals the erosion of democratic practices in Nigeria, asserting that it undermines the judiciary, which had previously dealt with the issues in Rivers State.
The statement emphasizes that Tinubu’s declaration shows contempt for judicial processes, suggesting that it invalidates the courts’ previous judgments and indicates an impending anarchy within governance. The party views Tinubu’s actions as hypocritical, recalling his strong past criticism of former President Goodluck Jonathan’s similar decisions in 2013.
AAC expressed concern that Tinubu is perpetuating dictatorial governance, attracting ridicule from neighboring nations with recent military governance. They hold both Tinubu and Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike responsible for escalating tensions in Rivers State.
The emergency declaration followed the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, with Tinubu appointing a new Administrator for the state. Citing escalating violence and political instability, Tinubu justified these extreme measures as necessary for restoring order in Rivers State.
The political strife stems from a deep-seated rivalry between Fubara and Wike, which intensified after Wike’s loyalists switched party allegiance, leading to further disputes over legislative control and state funding. The Rivers State chapter of the PDP also raised allegations of bias against the Supreme Court regarding the ruling on this contentious political situation.
The AAC’s vehement opposition to Tinubu’s declaration emphasizes the critical state of democracy in Nigeria, warning against the implications of military rule disguised as constitutional governance. This situation may inadvertently legitimize criticism from neighboring countries, reflecting a disturbing trend toward authoritarianism in the region. The ongoing political crisis in Rivers State needs careful resolution through democratic processes rather than emergency decrees, which undermine established rule of law and governance principles.
Original Source: saharareporters.com
