The 2023 presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party, Rabiu Kwankwaso, has condemned President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.

In a statement issued via his official X handle on Friday, Kwankwaso described the move as an unconstitutional decision that threatens Nigeria’s democratic principles.

Kwankwaso also berated the president’s decision to suspend Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and all elected members of the assembly.

He also condemned the National Assembly for quickly endorsing the president’s proclamation, arguing that the legislature failed in its duty to check executive overreach.

“I am perturbed by the unilateral decision of President Bola Tinubu to suspend Governor Similayi Fubara of Rivers State, his Deputy, and all elected state legislators from office. The legislature has the responsibility to hold the executive responsible and not always play to its tune. It is, therefore, appalling to see this 10th Assembly become more rubberstamp than any of its predecessors.

“More disturbing is the unilateral decision by both chambers of the National Assembly to ratify the president’s proclamation.

“I had hoped that the legislators would not add salt to injury by passing this illegality. The Constitution is clear on the method of voting on issues of such importance, and the decision to use the voice vote in deciding this is not consistent with the proper procedures and transparency,” he said.

Kwankwaso further urged the judiciary to play its role in upholding constitutional order, calling on legal institutions to remain impartial and resist external influence.


https://punchng.com/tinubus-action-unconstitutional-kwankwaso-faults-river-emergency-rule/