TINUBU’S ACTIONS RAISE SERIOUS CONCERNS: A CALL FOR ACCOUNTABILITY

Advertisement

By BUKAR Mohammed

Nigeria stands at a pivotal moment. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent actions regarding Rivers State have sparked significant debate about their constitutionality and implications for our democracy. Many view these actions as a potential violation of constitutional principles, highlighting the need for scrutiny and accountability.

ANALYZING THE CONSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK

The Nigerian Constitution outlines specific conditions under which a state of emergency can be declared. According to Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), such measures are only warranted in extreme situations like:

• War or external aggression
• A breakdown of public order beyond police control
• A clear and immediate threat to national security

The situation in Rivers State appears to stem from political disagreements rather than a genuine security crisis. The federal government’s intervention raises questions about the balance of power and the integrity of our federal system, making it imperative to examine these actions closely.

Advertisement

THE ROLE OF THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY

In a healthy democracy, the National Assembly would take immediate steps to address concerns regarding potential constitutional violations. However, the current silence from both the Senate and the House of Representatives raises concerns about their willingness to challenge the Executive when necessary.

Lawmakers seem preoccupied with securing personal interests rather than prioritizing the constitutional obligations they owe to their constituents. If they feel unable to fulfill their responsibilities, it is essential for citizens to consider their options, including the recall process as outlined in Section 69 of the Nigerian Constitution.

AVOIDING A DANGEROUS PRECEDENT

Allowing any leader to override state governments without proper justification could set a concerning precedent. This situation is not solely about Rivers State; it has implications for the future of governance in Nigeria. The integrity of our democracy hinges on our ability to hold leaders accountable and ensure that power is not abused.

A CALL TO ACTION FOR CITIZENS

Given the current landscape, it is crucial for the people to take proactive steps:

• Initiate the Recall Process: Citizens in every Senatorial district should consider petitioning the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to initiate recall efforts for any lawmakers who fail to advocate for democratic principles.
• Promote Civic Engagement: Civil society organizations and community leaders should mobilize support for a collective movement aimed at promoting accountability and democratic governance.
• Explore Legal Avenues: Engaging with legal frameworks can serve as a means to challenge actions perceived as unconstitutional.

A MESSAGE OF SOLIDARITY AND RESOLVE

Nigerians are encouraged to stay informed and participate actively in the democratic process. The current situation highlights the importance of collective engagement to ensure that our representatives uphold their responsibilities and that our democratic values are maintained. Citizens should explore various democratic options, such as petitions, public forums, and grassroots movements, as thoughtful and measured actions will be essential in protecting the future of our nation.

BUKAR Mohammed is a public analyst from Kano.