The Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP) has strongly criticized President Bola Tinubu over the suspension of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and the State House of Assembly, describing the move as unconstitutional and a threat to Nigeria’s democracy.
In a statement released early Wednesday and signed by its Deputy National Publicity Secretary, James Ezema, the CNPP denounced the suspension as a clear violation of the 1999 Constitution, warning that such executive overreach sets a dangerous precedent.
“The Nigerian Constitution does not grant the president the authority to suspend an elected governor or their deputy,” the CNPP stated. “Section 188 explicitly outlines impeachment by the State House of Assembly as the only legal process for removing a sitting governor. President Tinubu’s actions are not only unconstitutional but also a brazen abuse of power.”
The CNPP cited Section 1(2) of the Constitution, which prohibits any individual or group from seizing control of any part of Nigeria’s government outside constitutional provisions. The group further referenced Section 11(4) and (5), which allows the National Assembly to intervene in a state legislature only under extreme circumstances but does not grant authority to suspend governors. Additionally, Section 308 grants governors and their deputies immunity from legal proceedings while in office, further raising questions about the legality of Tinubu’s decision.
The CNPP also questioned the motives behind the president’s actions. “Would President Tinubu have made this decision if Rivers State were controlled by the All Progressives Congress (APC)?” the group asked. “Is this an attempt by the APC to seize political control of Rivers State? And why has the president not shown the same urgency in addressing states facing insurgency and security crises?”
Calling for an immediate reversal of the suspension, the CNPP urged President Tinubu to respect constitutional principles and democratic governance. “A true democrat must uphold due process,” the statement read. “Acts of executive dictatorship weaken democracy and render elections meaningless.”
The CNPP also called on Nigerians to remain vigilant and resist any attempts to undermine democratic institutions. “This is a wake-up call for all Nigerians to defend our democracy. We must not allow unconstitutional actions to set dangerous precedents,” the group warned.
As political tensions escalate, observers are watching closely to see whether Tinubu will reconsider the suspension or whether this move will lead to a broader constitutional crisis in Rivers State.