Governor Makinde condemns emergency rule in Rivers State, says democratic tenets must never be tampered with

Seyi Makinde, the Governor of Oyo state, has condemned the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu. 

Makinde shared his thought in his biweekly newsletter, ‘The Business of Governance (Issue 110)’, published on Thursday evening, March 20. 

Recall that on Tuesday, March 18, President Tinubu announced a state of emergency in Rivers State, suspending Governor Similayi Fubara, his deputy, Ngozi Odu, and the state House of Assembly for six months. He then appointed Vice Admiral Ibok Ibas (Rtd.) as Sole Administrator. 

Reacting, the Oyo State Governor described the move as unconstitutional and called on all well-meaning Nigerians to oppose it. 

While emphasizing the need to uphold democratic principles, regardless of personal opinions or political affiliations, Makinde urged Nigerians to resist any action that threatens the nation’s democratic growth. 

“I stand today to say that the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State and the suspension of the executive and legislative arms of government by the presidency is an illegality that right-thinking members of society must oppose. 

“Our democratic tenets must never be trifled with, no matter our personal feelings and loyalties. This is the time to take a stand for fairness, equity, and justice. 

“As our democracy grows and unfolds, we must be willing to speak up against anything that endangers our progress. We must choose to stand up for what is right, even if it means standing alone,” Makinde said. 

The governor also commended his party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), for taking a firm stance on the matter. 

He revealed that the PDP Governors’ Forum, during an emergency meeting on Wednesday, unanimously resolved to challenge the president’s decision in court. 

“We cannot fold our hands and watch the democracy we have built for almost three decades be trampled upon,” he added.