The declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu has sparked criticism regarding the legality of suspending a democratically elected governor. Legal experts argue for political resolution without military intervention. The political landscape is further complicated by historical marginalization of the Ijaw people, leading to concerns about economic stability and foreign investment amid growing tensions in the region.
In Nigeria, heightened tensions have emerged following President Bola Tinubu’s decision to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State, which included suspending Governor Sim Fubara and his deputy. This situation leads many to question whether Nigeria is heading down a similar path as Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso, where military coups have occurred. Legal experts, led by the Nigerian Bar Association, have criticized the legality of the president’s actions, emphasizing the need for political resolution over military intervention.
The military juntas in Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso initially gained power through coups, becoming starkly criticized by Nigeria for these actions. Their recent claims suggest they believe their administrations are more beneficial than the ousted democratically elected presidents. Notably, these countries have since distanced themselves from ECOWAS, which has threatened sanctions against them for not reverting to democratic rule.
In Rivers State, the president’s declaration has exacerbated existing political issues, with critics noting the lack of reference to Nyesom Wike, the alleged instigator of the crisis. The appointment of Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas as an interim administrator raises concerns about governance effectiveness and the potential dismissal of public interests. This political instability threatens to deter foreign investment essential for stabilizing Nigeria’s economy.
The political landscape in Rivers is complicated by longstanding grievances from the Ijaw ethnic group, who feel marginalized in state leadership, holding power for less than two years out of the last 26. Recent court rulings regarding federal allocations exacerbate these feelings, leading to concerns of a catastrophic fallout similar to past events. Drawing parallels to past upheavals, observers warn that Nigeria’s fragile oil production could face serious threats if the conflict worsens.
Amid fluctuating oil production levels, foreign investors remain cautious about the Nigerian market. Tinubu’s investment drive faces challenges, inhibited by ongoing political instability and security issues that deter foreign capital inflow. The government’s fixation on political turmoil is overshadowing the need for economic growth and initiatives to secure foreign investments, further complicating Nigeria’s path forward and potentially worsening conditions.
The current state of emergency in Rivers State highlights a critical juncture for Nigeria, where political action reflects concerns reminiscent of other West African nations. The Nigerian government’s response to internal crises through military options raises significant questions about democracy and governance in the region. Ongoing grievances, particularly from marginalized communities like the Ijaw, as well as the adverse economic impacts from political instability, suggest immediate action is required to restore confidence and stability in Nigeria, particularly regarding foreign investment and resource management.
Original Source: businessday.ng
