Conference of Nigeria Political Parties, CNPP, has condemned the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and the Rivers State House of Assembly by President Bola Tinubu following a declaration of state of emergency on the state.
Deputy National Publicity Secretary, CNPP, Mr. James Ezema in a statement on Tuesday, said: “We strongly condemns the recent suspension of Governor Fubara, his deputy, and the Rivers State House of Assembly by President Tinubu.
“This action is a blatant violation of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) and an alarming abuse of power.
“The Constitution is unequivocal in its provisions regarding the removal of a duly elected governor. Section 188 clearly outlines the impeachment process, which is the sole legal mechanism for removing a governor, and it is exclusively the prerogative of the state House of Assembly.
“Nowhere in the Constitution is the President granted the authority to suspend a governor or their deputy.
“Furthermore, Section 1(2) of the Constitution explicitly states: “The Federal Republic of Nigeria shall not be governed, nor shall any person or group of persons take control of the government of Nigeria or any part thereof, except in accordance with the provisions of this Constitution.”
“President Tinubu’s actions are therefore, unconstitutional and undermine the rule of law.
“Section 11(4) and (5) of the Constitution allows the National Assembly to intervene in the affairs of a State House of Assembly only in cases where the Assembly is unable to perform its functions due to crisis.
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“Even in such circumstances, this provision does not extend to suspending an elected governor or deputy. Additionally, Section 308 grants immunity to governors and their deputies from civil or criminal proceedings while in office, raising serious questions about the legal basis for the President’s actions.
“This development prompts critical questions: Would President Tinubu have taken such drastic measures in a state governed by the All Progressives Congress, APC? Is this part of a broader APC agenda to seize control of Rivers State?
“Why has the President not demonstrated similar urgency in addressing states under siege by insurgents?
“We call on President Tinubu to immediately reverse this unconstitutional suspension and reinstate the duly elected executive and legislature of Rivers State.
“As a democrat, the President must adhere to due process and respect the Constitution. Acts of dictatorship erode the foundations of democracy and render elections—the only legitimate means of transferring power meaningless.
“We urge all Nigerians to remain vigilant and united in defending our democracy.
“The CNPP remains committed to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that Nigeria’s democratic journey is not derailed by unconstitutional actions,” the statement added.
