The Coalition of United Political Parties has said that President Bola Tinubu’s imposition of a state of emergency in Rivers State and the appointment of a sole administrator in the state threaten Nigeria’s democracy.
The National Secretary of the CUPP, Peter Ahmed, in a statement, made the coalition’s position known in Abuja, on Monday.
Ahmed said that Tinubu’s administration, through undemocratic means, was dismantling democratic institutions in Rivers State.
The CUPP also said no part of the constitution justifies the president’s actions in appointing Ibok-Ete Ibas, a retired Vice Admiral, as the state’s sole administrator.
A part of the statement said, “In a stunning twist, Tinubu’s administration can be seen dismantling democratic institutions in Rivers State through undemocratic means.
“The forceful, military-backed removal of elected officials and the subsequent appointment of local government administrators have further fueled allegations that the President is disregarding the rule of law—a cornerstone of any functioning democracy.
“The question at the heart of this controversy is clear: what section(s) of the Nigerian Constitution provide for the appointment of a sole administrator or justify such interference with democratic institutions?
“The answer, many contend, is none. The Constitution explicitly outlines the framework for democratically elected local government councils under Section 7, with no provision for a sole administrator to usurp these roles.
“By imposing such a figure in Rivers State, Tinubu’s administration risks setting a dangerous precedent, one that could erode the democratic gains painstakingly achieved over the years.
Ahmed added that the situation in Rivers State has deteriorated further under the new sole administrator, who is now making decisions and appointments that should fall within the purview of elected officials.
In his assessment, “This unchecked authority has birthed a cycle of illegality, as one unlawful act begets another.
“The sole administrator’s role, unrecognized by law, threatens to destabilize the political structure of the state, replacing democratic processes with arbitrary governance.”
