Coalition of Nigerians Write African Union Over State of Emergency in Rivers

A coalition of Nigerians has expressed dismay and disappointment over President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, describing it as a gross abuse of power and a blatant disregard for the Constitution, democratic principles, and the rule of law.

In a letter to the African Union Commission, the coalition urged the commission to take immediate action to address the situation and ensure that democratic principles are upheld.

See full letter below:

*COALITION OF NIGERIANS*
No. 24 Seriki Street, Off Odunsi Street, Bariga Shomolu Lagos, Nigeria.

March 26, 2025

His Excellency, Alhaji Mahmoud Ali Youssouf,
The Chairperson, African Union Commission,
P. O. Box 3243, Roosevelt Street W21K19,
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Your Excellency,

UNCONSTITUTIONAL DECLARATION OF STATE OF EMERGENCY IN RIVERS STATE: A THREAT TO DEMOCRACY IN NIGERIA AND AFRICA

We are writing to express our utmost dismay, disappointment, and disillusionment over the recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu. This decision is not only a gross abuse of power but also a blatant disregard for the Constitution, democratic principles, and the rule of law.

With President Tinubu as the Chairman of ECOWAS, Nigeria is expected to be a shining example of democratic governance in Africa. Unfortunately, President Tinubu’s actions have fallen woefully short of this expectation. His decision to suspend the democratically elected Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminilayi Fubara, and the State House of Assembly, is a clear violation of the Constitution and an affront to democratic principles.

Section 305 of the Constitution, which the President cited as the basis for his action, does not grant him the power to suspend or remove elected officials. The Constitution is clear on the grounds for removing a governor, which is explicitly stated in Section 188. The President’s action is a blatant disregard for the Constitution and the democratic process.

This action is not only a threat to democracy in Nigeria but also sets a dangerous precedent for the suppression of democratic institutions and the rule of law in Africa. It is imperative that the African Union Commission takes immediate action to address this situation and ensure that democratic principles are upheld.

The implications of this action are far-reaching, and if left unchecked, could lead to a breakdown in law and order, undermine the legitimacy of democratic institutions, and damage Nigeria’s reputation as a beacon of democracy in Africa. Furthermore, this action raises serious concerns about the President’s commitment to democracy and the rule of law. It is worrisome that the President would resort to such draconian measures, rather than exploring democratic solutions to the challenges facing Rivers State.

We are also concerned about the potential consequences of this action on the stability of Nigeria and the African region. The suspension of democratic institutions and the imposition of emergency rule could lead to widespread unrest, violence, and instability. In addition, this action undermines the principles of federalism and the autonomy of states in Nigeria. The President’s decision to suspend the Governor and the State House of Assembly is a clear infringement on the powers of the state government and a violation of the principle of separation of powers.

We urge you to prevail upon President Tinubu to immediately lift the State of Emergency in Rivers State and restore the democratically elected government. We request that the African Union Commission take concrete steps to ensure that Nigeria, as a member state, upholds the principles of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. We also request that the African Union Commission take the following steps:

*Condemns the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State and the suspension of the democratically elected Governor and State House of Assembly.
*Calls on President Tinubu to immediately lift the State of Emergency and restore the democratically elected government.
*Sends a fact-finding mission to Rivers State to investigate the circumstances surrounding the declaration of a state of emergency and the suspension of democratic institutions.
*Takes concrete steps to ensure that Nigeria, as a member state, upholds the principles of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.

We look forward to your prompt response and action.

Signed;
Professor Senator Opeyemi Ola
Professor Adah George
Rt. Hon Dr James Oloko
Dr. Mrs Evelyn E. Ogolime

Gov. Adeleke, Ooni of Ife To Grace Yoruba Frontline Association’s Award Night

The Governor of Osun State, Ademola Adeleke and the Ooni of Ife, His Royal Majesty Enitan Ogunwusi, the Ojaja 1, are expected to grace the Yoruba Frontline Association’s Children Festival and Award Night which will take place from April 25 and 26, 2024 at Ilenla Hall, Ojaja Palace, Ile Ife, Osun State.
The 2- day event which is scheduled to hold 25th and 26th April, 2025.

The father of the day at the prestigious event is Alhaji Rasak Akanni Okoya, Chairman of the day, Dr. Taiwo Afolabi (CON), Guest speaker 1, Hrh, Oba Omogbolahan Akanni Timson, Guest speaker 2, Dr. Tunde, Hamsat(UI Ibadan), while the keynote address will be delivered by Sheikh Abdul Raheem Aduamigba, Chief Imam of Yorubaland.
The Yoruba Frontline Association (YFA) is a cultural organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich heritage of the Yoruba people.

According to the President of the Y F A Prince Aluko Samuel said as custodians of our ancestors’ values, we strive to protect and defend our cultural legacy, while teaching future generations about our traditions and customs.

Also the mission of YFA is dedicated to preserving and promoting Yoruba cultural heritage through education, community engagement, and cultural showcase.

And visions To be a leading custodian of Yoruba values and traditions, fostering a sense of community and shared identity among our people, while showcasing the beauty and diversity of Yoruba culture to the world.

What set us apart Unlike other groups, YFA is distinct in its sole focus on cultural preservation and education, rather than militant activism. Our mission is to showcase the beauty and diversity of Yoruba culture, while fostering a sense of community and shared identity among our people.
“We invite the public to recognize and respect our commitment to preserving Yoruba heritage, and to distinguish our organization from others that may have different goals and methods.
Awon Alale, a gbe wa o
*Yoruba o ni daru”

Mother’s Day: Ajadi Commends Nigerian Women For Their Pivotal Roles …Says They Are Unsung Heroes

A South West Chieftain of the New Nigeria Peoples Party, (NNPP), Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo has used the occasion of this year’s Mother’s Day to extol the virtue of Nigerian women, saying they are playing pivotal role in building families.

While appreciating his wife Mrs Oyindamola Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, his deputy in 2023 gubernatorial election, Alhaja Shakirat Arowolo for their unquantifiable support, and all women in the country for their inestimable sacrifices, Ajadi described mothers as the unsung heroes, whose impact resonates far beyond what words could describe.

Ajadi, who made this known while speaking with journalists on the occasion of this year’s Mother’s Day, said Mother’s commitment and dedication to raising the next generation is truly inspiring.

Mother’s Day is a celebration honouring the mother of the family or individual, as well as motherhood, maternal bonds, and the influence of mothers in society.

Ajadi called on President Bola Tinubu and the state governors to give more role to women in nation’s building through allocation of more political offices in government.

He said that governments at all levels in the country should work towards achieving the Beijing Declaration of having 30 percent of women in elective and political appointments.

Ajadi, who was the governorship candidate of the NNPP in Ogun State in 2023, said that the need to give more women voices in governance made him to have a female Deputy, Alhaja Shakirat Arowolo during the general election.

According to him, “I rejoice with our women on the occasion of the 2025 Mother’s Day. You are the unsung heroes, whose impact resonates far beyond what words could describe.

“Your commitment and dedication to raising the next generation is truly inspiring. I celebrate all mothers, they are the heart of families, the nurturers of children, and the pillars of society.

“Today, I honour every mother especially those who care tirelessly for the families, who balance work and home, and those who, in spite of challenges, continue to give their best.
“I say to all mothers that the country’s future lies in the values, wisdom and love we instil in the coming generation.“Happy Mother’s Day.

“I also use the occasion of this year’s Mother’s Day to call on the President and State Governors as well as the Nigerian electorate to remember the Beijing Declaration that seeks 30 percent for women in elective and political appointments.

“It is sad that out of 109 Senators, we have only about five women. The percentage in the House of Representatives is also very low. Most state governments are having male governors and deputies. We must change this situation in the coming elections.”