- The PRP demanded a full investigation into the President’s actions to determine if they constitute an impeachable offense.
- The party encouraged civil society groups, Nigerians, and the international community to resist what it termed “executive overreach” in Rivers state.
The Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) has criticised President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.
The party described it as a “violation of democratic principles and a breach of the 1999 Constitution.”
In a statement issued on Wednesday by its national publicity secretary, Muhammed Ishaq, the party condemned the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and members of the Rivers state house of assembly.
The PRP argued that the President’s action represented an unconstitutional overreach of executive power.
According to the party, Section 305 of the Nigerian Constitution specifies conditions under which a state of emergency can be declared, but it does not permit the suspension or removal of elected officials.
The PRP stated that Tinubu’s actions posed a “direct threat to democracy and the rule of law in the country.”
“We note with grave concern that the political tensions and alleged issues leading to this declaration do not rise to the level of a constitutional crisis that would warrant the suspension of an entire state government,” the statement read.
The party further argued that political disputes in Rivers State should be resolved through judicial processes rather than executive directives.
It warned that allowing the President to remove elected leaders under the pretext of emergency powers could set a dangerous precedent for future administrations.
Calling on the national assembly to reject the President’s decision, the PRP emphasised that democratic governance must be preserved.
The PRP urged lawmakers to scrutinise Tinubu’s actions while demanding the immediate reinstatement of Fubara, his deputy, and the members of the Rivers state house of assembly.
“A thorough review of the President’s decision to ensure accountability and constitutional compliance,” the PRP demanded.
“A commitment from the National Assembly to investigate and nullify what it described as an “illegal suspension.”
“An assessment of whether the President’s declaration violates constitutional provisions and, if so, the commencement of impeachment proceedings.”
The PRP reaffirmed its commitment to upholding democracy and called on civil society organisations, Nigerians, and the international community to oppose “executive overreach” and demand the restoration of democratic governance in Rivers State.
The party concluded by stating that Nigeria’s democracy must remain protected from arbitrary decisions and the abuse of power.
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