By The Association of Nigerian Professionals in Europe (ANPE) has strongly opposed the recent state of emergency declared in Rivers State, urging President Bola Tinubu to reverse the decision and restore democratic governance. The group described the move as unconstitutional and harmful to Nigeria’s reputation.
Last week, President Tinubu invoked Section 305 of the Constitution to justify the emergency rule, citing ongoing political unrest and vandalism of oil facilities. As part of the decision, he suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and the State House of Assembly, appointing retired Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as sole administrator.
ANPE’s Global President, Solomon Ola, criticized the action, warning that it could undermine investor confidence and destabilize Nigeria’s already fragile economy. “The suspension of elected officials without due process is a clear violation of democratic norms,” he said. The group also accused Tinubu of setting a dangerous precedent that threatens federalism and due process.
According to ANPE, the international community is watching closely, and Nigeria’s image as a democratic nation is being damaged. “This authoritarian maneuver has drawn criticism from international observers, destroying Nigeria’s status as an investment destination,” the group stated.
The group also blamed the National Assembly for failing to check what it called “executive overreach.” It called on lawmakers to investigate the legality of the emergency rule and urged the judiciary to ensure constitutional procedures are followed in handling political crises.
ANPE further warned that Nigeria’s democracy is at risk if such actions continue unchecked. “The National Assembly’s failure to act is a disgrace to Nigerians in the diaspora. We urge them to reinvestigate this matter thoroughly and take action to safeguard democracy,” the statement concluded.
