Former Deputy National Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Bode George, has strongly criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.
According to Vanguard, he described the move as a blatant disregard for constitutional authority and a dangerous precedent for Nigerian democracy.
Reacting to the development, George condemned the action, stating, “This is absolute Armageddon—total disrespect for constituted authority. The Constitution has been viciously violated.”
He accused Tinubu of acting recklessly, arguing that the president had no justification for suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara. “What did Fubara do? As Commander-in-Chief, Tinubu gave Wike soldiers and security agents to destabilize Rivers State.
The governor has no control over security agencies, yet he remained calm. Nobody has explained what he did to warrant this dictatorial emergency rule,” George stated.
Drawing historical parallels, he warned of potential democratic backsliding.
“This is exactly how it started in 1962 and 1983. It’s a dress rehearsal for what Tinubu wants to do in 2027.
The APC wants to take control of all states through unconstitutional means,” he added.
George also questioned the legality of Tinubu’s decision.
“Did he get National Assembly approval before his broadcast? Why didn’t he declare a state of emergency in Lagos when lawmakers were fighting? Why invite Diete-Spiff and Niger Delta leaders last week if he already planned this?”
Concluding his remarks, he expressed concerns over the future of democracy under Tinubu’s leadership.
“Is Tinubu now becoming a civilian dictator?” George asked, calling on Nigerians to resist any attempts to undermine democratic institutions.