Amaechi Condemns Tinubu’s Suspension of Rivers Governor, Calls It ‘Unconstitutional Power Grab’
Former Rivers State Governor and ex-Transport Minister Rotimi Amaechi has strongly condemned President Tinubu’s suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and others.
In a March 19 statement, Amaechi described the suspension as “undemocratic, unconstitutional, and a blatant violation of Nigeria’s Constitution.”
He urged the National Assembly, state governors, civil society, and all stakeholders to reject what he termed an “illegal power grab.”
Furthermore, Amaechi argued that President Tinubu exceeded his constitutional authority by suspending duly elected officials without following the due process.
He cited Section 188 of the 1999 Constitution, noting that only the State House of Assembly can impeach a governor.
According to Amaechi, no section of the 1999 Constitution allows the President to remove elected officials through executive orders or decrees.
“With this singular move, Mr. President has technically suspended and truncated democracy in Rivers State,” Amaechi stated.
Moreover, he criticized Tinubu’s reliance on Section 305, arguing it does not authorize the dissolution of elected government arms.
He warned that such actions amount to a planned political takeover of Rivers State under the guise of constitutional authority.
Amaechi therefore urged Nigerians to resist what he described as a deliberate violation of democracy and the rule of law.
“At this moment, all people of goodwill must oppose this violation of our Constitution and democracy,” he declared firmly.
Additionally, he called on legal experts and rights groups to challenge the suspension through lawful and peaceful means.
As a former Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), Amaechi praised governors who opposed the suspension decision.
He urged other governors to join in resisting what he termed as a dangerous slide into dictatorship and authoritarianism.
In conclusion, Amaechi emphasized that protecting democratic institutions is essential for Nigeria’s unity, peace, and constitutional order.
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