Opposition parties and civil society organisations have warned President Bola Tinubu against the increasing militarisation of Nigeria’s democracy, citing recent developments in Rivers State.
Concerns grew after the President declared a state of emergency in the state and appointed a sole administrator, following the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and members of the state assembly due to a prolonged crisis with his predecessor, Nyesom Wike.
Critics, including Ebonyi PDP spokesperson Chika Nwoba, described the move as a military-style imposition that undermines democratic processes. The Labour Party and the Because of Our Tomorrow Party (BOOT) also condemned the action, with BOOT National Chairman Sonny Adenuga calling it a violation of Nigeria’s constitutional framework.
Civil society leader Dr. Omenazu Jackson warned that such actions weaken democratic institutions and called for a national conference to draft a new constitution.
However, Kwara APC Chairman Prince Sunday Fagbemi defended the President, arguing that Fubara’s suspension was necessary to prevent further instability and was carried out within constitutional limits.
