South-South Governors’ Forum opposes non-democratic intervention rule in Rivers state
The South-South Governors’ Forum has faulted the emergency rule ordered by President Bola Tinubu which resulted in the appointment of an administrator to overseer governance in Rivers State.
Penpushing reports that the forum in a statement argued that Section 305(3) stipulated that such a declaration should be considered under specific conditions like war, external aggression, and imminent invasion.
The Chairman of the body of the South-South Governors’ Douye Diri, who is also the governor of Bayelsa State in the statement added that the conditions also included the breakdown of public order, existential threats to Nigeria, natural disasters, or other significant public dangers.
Penpushing further reports that the Governor emphasized that the political situation in Rivers state did not deteriorate to a point where it required an emergency rule, considering the provisions of Section 305(3) of the Nigerian Constitution.
The forum in addition explained that it is also worth noting that the constitution outlines specific procedures for the removal of a governor and deputy governor, as detailed in Section 188.
Penpushing also reports that the forum pointed out that in the current situation, it appeared that these guidelines might not have been fully considered, stressing that they recognise the President’s constitutional duty to maintain law and order throughout Nigeria, just as they (Governors) are mandated to secure peace and stability in our states.
The Chairman said the forum noted the six-month declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers state, a constituent part of the forum, and the suspension of two democratic institutions.
“And similar provisions exist for the removal of members of the House of Assembly and the dissolution of the parliament. We believe that the political disputes in Rivers State between the Governor and the House of Assembly should, ideally, be resolved through legal and constitutional means rather than by executive fiat.
“As a path forward to reduce tensions and establish a foundation for enduring peace, the South-South Governor’s Forum proposes the rescission of the State of Emergency. In the meantime, we encourage all parties to remain calm, uphold peace and the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he said.
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