By Imuetinyan Osaro
The coalition of over two hundred civil society organizations dedicated to promoting credible elections and governance in Nigeria “The Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room” has condemned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.
This is contained in a statement jointly signed by the South South Zonal Coordinator, Dr. Jude Obasanmi, and Coordinator of Indomitable Youths Organization, Dr. Bright Oniovokukor and others in Benin.
The statement stresses that President Tinubu exceeded his constitutional authority and undermine the principles of federalism.
It argues that the President’s declaration contravenes the Nigerian Constitution, undermining federalism and the separation of powers.
It notes that if the declaration of the state of emergency was allowed to stand, it will set a dangerous precedent for future undemocratic actions by the federal government against other states.
The statement adds that the development could embolden leaders to subvert democracy for personal or political gain, jeopardizing Nigeria’s progress in strengthening democratic governance since 1999 .
It however demands that the President revoke the declaration and restore constitutional order and call for a public apology from the President for violating democratic rights and unlawfully usurping powers.
According to the statement the group further urge the Judiciary and stakeholders to safeguard Nigeria’s democracy and prevent future violations.
The statement calls on the National Assembly to exercise its oversight function to ensure the President’s actions align with the Constitution.
