Rivers Crisis: ACD Condemns Tinubu’s Emergency Rule, Accuses NASS of Undermining Democracy

Rivers Crisis: ACD Condemns Tinubu’s Emergency Rule, Accuses NASS of Undermining Democracy  

The African Coalition for Democracy (ACD) has strongly condemned President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of emergency rule in Rivers State, describing it as a grave assault on Nigeria’s democracy and a violation of constitutional principles.  Wa sa

In a statement signed by its spokesperson, Dr. Bartholomew Benjamin, the pro-democracy group decried the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and other elected officials, warning that the move sets a dangerous precedent that threatens the country’s democratic stability.  

### **Tinubu, NASS Accused of Power Grab**  

According to the ACD, President Tinubu’s decision to impose emergency rule in Rivers State without proper adherence to constitutional procedures signals an attempt to consolidate power rather than uphold democratic governance.  

“The suspension of Governor Fubara and other elected officials is a clear indication that the President and the National Assembly are more interested in consolidating power than in protecting democracy,” the statement read.  

The group also faulted the National Assembly for failing to act as an independent check on the executive, accusing lawmakers of hastily approving the emergency rule without proper scrutiny.  

“According to Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, the President can declare a state of emergency, but it must be done in line with constitutional provisions and subject to National Assembly approval,” Benjamin stated.  

“However, in this case, the National Assembly has abandoned its constitutional responsibility, rubber-stamping the President’s decision without due consideration. This is a dangerous precedent that threatens the stability of Nigeria’s democracy.”  

### **ACD Calls for National, International Resistance**  

Describing the situation as a betrayal of democratic ideals, the ACD called on Nigerians to resist what it termed an erosion of constitutional governance.  

“This is a sad day for Nigeria’s democracy. We urge all Nigerians to rise up and demand that their elected representatives uphold their constitutional oath,” the group declared.  

The ACD also appealed to the international community, including the United Nations, the European Union, and the African Union, to intervene and condemn what it described as a “blatant disregard for democratic principles.”  

“We urge the international community to place Nigeria on a watchlist for democratic backsliding and consider imposing targeted sanctions on those responsible for undermining the country’s democracy.”  

The group demanded an immediate reversal of the emergency rule and full restoration of democratic governance in Rivers State, warning that any deviation from constitutional norms could have far-reaching consequences for Nigeria’s stability.