Politics
EFCC’S POLITICAL AGENDA EXPOSED AS COMMISSION DESPERATELY CHARGES YAHAYA BELLO FOR DIVERTING KOGI’S FUNDS MONTHS BEFORE HE ASSUMED OFFICE
Rivers Crisis: PDP Governors Challenge Emergency Rule at Supreme Court
By George O. Sylvester
The political climate in Nigeria has taken a dramatic turn as governors of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have filed a lawsuit at the Supreme Court, challenging President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State. The emergency proclamation, made on March 18, saw Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all members of the state House of Assembly suspended for six months. In their place, the president appointed retired Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as the sole administrator of the state.
This move has sparked nationwide debate, with the PDP governors contending that it constitutes a flagrant violation of constitutional provisions. The plaintiffs—governors of Bauchi, Adamawa, Bayelsa, Enugu, Osun, Plateau, and Zamfara states—assert that the president lacks the authority to unilaterally suspend a democratically elected governor and deputy governor. In their submission, they argue that the appointment of a sole administrator is not only unconstitutional but also sets a dangerous precedent for Nigeria’s democracy.
A Legal and Constitutional Showdown
According to court documents filed by the PDP governors, the emergency proclamation contravenes several sections of the Nigerian Constitution, particularly Sections 1(2), 5(2), and 305 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). Section 1(2) of the Constitution explicitly states that “the Federal Republic of Nigeria shall not be governed, nor shall any person or group of persons take control of the government of Nigeria or any part thereof, except in accordance with the provisions of this Constitution.” The plaintiffs argue that by suspending the duly elected governor and deputy governor, the president has usurped powers that the Constitution does not grant him.
Furthermore, the governors maintain that Section 305, which outlines the conditions under which a state of emergency can be declared, does not empower the president to suspend elected officials. The section provides that a state of emergency may be declared in the case of war, natural disasters, public disorder, or breakdown of law and order. However, the plaintiffs argue that the situation in Rivers State did not meet these stringent conditions.
The Eleven Flaws of President Tinubu: A Critical Analysis
By George O Sylvester
President Tinubu’s administration has been marred by several controversies and criticisms since its inception. This article provides an in-depth examination of eleven flaws that have been identified in his leadership style and policies, which may potentially impact the effectiveness of his administration.
1. The Insignificant Vice President:
The role of Vice President Kashim Shettima in the administration has been rendered insignificant, with many questioning his continued relevance. The Muslim-Muslim ticket that was used to woo Northern votes has been exposed as a mere gimmick, leaving the North East region feeling betrayed. According to Senator Ibrahim Shekarau, “The Vice President’s role has been reduced to mere ceremonial functions, a far cry from the robust engagement we expected.”
2. The Weak National Chairman:
APC National Chairman Abdullahi Umar Ganduje’s corruption allegations have continued to plague his tenure, despite his denials. The opposition has capitalized on these allegations, using them to attack the Federal Government. Governor Samuel Ortom noted, “Ganduje’s corruption allegations have damaged the APC’s reputation, and his continued stay as National Chairman is a liability.” Furthermore, Ganduje’s home state of Kano is now controlled by the opposition NNPP, led by Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.
3. The Liability Senate President:
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has lost credibility due to his handling of the Senate, which has been criticized for being chaotic. His corruption allegations and sexual harassment charges have become synonymous with his name, leading many to question his character and humility. Senator Ovie Omo-Agege stated, “Akpabio’s leadership style has been divisive, and his handling of the Senate has been chaotic.”
4. The National Security Adviser’s Questionable Integrity:
National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu’s threat to sue Najaatu Mohammad over corruption allegations against President Tinubu ended in embarrassment. His failure to follow through on his threat and subsequent denial of ever accusing the President of corruption have tarnished his integrity. Hon. Yusuf Gagdi noted, “Ribadu’s failure to take action against corruption allegations has raised questions about his credibility and integrity.”
5. The Minister of FCT’s Divisive Politics:
Minister of FCT Nwesome Wike’s appointment has been marked by controversy, with many questioning his suitability for the role. Wike, a former PDP member, played anti-party politics in Rivers State to support President Tinubu’s candidacy. Senator Ali Ndume stated, “Wike’s appointment has been a disaster, and his actions have further polarized the polity.”
6. The Buhari Camp’s Growing Discontent:
The politicians who supported President Tinubu’s candidacy, known as the Buhari camp, feel sidelined and are quietly regrouping to challenge the President. Former governor Nasir El-Rufai warned, “The Buhari camp feels betrayed, and their discontent may boil over into a full-blown crisis.”
7. Political Mercenaries:
Reno Omokri and Senator Shehu Sani, once vocal critics of President Tinubu, are now his vocal supporters. Their accusations against the President, ranging from Chicago controversies to drug trafficking allegations, have been conveniently forgotten. Senator Dino Melaye said, “Reno Omokri and Shehu Sani’s sudden U-turn is a classic case of political opportunism, driven by self-interest rather than principle.”
8. The Muslim-Muslim Ticket Mantra:
The Muslim-Muslim ticket mantra used to woo Northern votes has been exposed as a ruse. Northerners are poised to make fresh demands come 2027, which may not bode well for the APC-led government. Hon. Mohammed Monguno predicted, “The Muslim-Muslim ticket was a gimmick that has backfired, and the APC will pay the price in 2027.”
9. Nepotism in Appointments:
President Tinubu’s appointments have been criticized for favoring Yoruba elites, creating a perception that the President is building the Yoruba people above all other tribes in Nigeria. Forner Governor Ifeanyi Okowa noted, “The President’s appointments have been lopsided, favoring Yoruba elites at the expense of other regions.”
10. Seyi Tinubu’s Involvement in Underground Campaigns:
Seyi Tinubu’s involvement in underground campaigns is unlikely to yield positive results for the APC. This move exposes the President’s parental weakness, drawing parallels with the Abacha era. Seyi’s actions are disrupting Lagos’ political landscape, relying on financial influence rather than integrity. Senator Kabiru Gaya stated, “Seyi Tinubu’s actions are a reflection of the President’s weakness, and his reliance on financial influence rather than integrity will ultimately harm the APC.”
11. President Tinubu’s Shift in Leadership Style:
President Tinubu has transformed from a wise leader to a powerful one since taking office. He no longer values consultations, lobbying, and persuasions.”The President’s maiden speech was a clear indication of his disregard for democratic principles, and his unilateral decision-making style will lead to chaos.” – Hon. Kingsley Chinda
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