Peter Obi

Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has strongly criticized President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, calling it “unconstitutional” and “reckless.” He argued that the decision undermines Nigeria’s democratic progress, threatens the rule of law, and sets a dangerous precedent.

Obi stated that the political situation in Rivers State does not justify such an extreme measure. He emphasized that a state of emergency does not grant the President the authority to unilaterally remove an elected governor, warning that such actions could foster a culture of impunity and dictatorship.

President Tinubu, in a nationwide address, declared the state of emergency due to a political crisis and a breakdown of law and order in Rivers State. As part of this declaration, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all members of the House of Assembly were suspended for six months. Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (rtd) was appointed as the administrator to oversee the state’s affairs during this period.

In response, Obi called on the National Assembly and other stakeholders to intervene, urging them to resist what he described as a clear violation of democratic norms. He warned that allowing such an action to stand would further deepen the culture of impunity and lawlessness already threatening Nigeria’s democracy.