Oyo Governor Seyi Makinde Condemns Tinubu’s State of Emergency Declaration in Rivers

 

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has strongly opposed President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, calling it unconstitutional and a threat to Nigeria’s democracy.

In his biweekly newsletter, The Business of Governance (Issue 110), published on Thursday, March 20, Makinde urged Nigerians to resist any action that undermines democratic principles, regardless of political affiliations.

His reaction follows Tinubu’s controversial decision on Tuesday, March 18, to suspend Rivers State Governor Similayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and the state’s House of Assembly for six months, appointing Vice Admiral Ibok Ibas (Rtd.) as Sole Administrator.

Makinde described the move as an “illegality that right-thinking members of society must oppose.” He emphasized the importance of standing up for justice, fairness, and democratic values.

“Our democratic tenets must never be trifled with, no matter our personal feelings and loyalties. This is the time to take a stand for fairness, equity, and justice. We must speak up against anything that endangers our progress,” Makinde stated.

The governor also praised his party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), for taking a firm stance on the issue. He disclosed that the PDP Governors’ Forum, in an emergency meeting on Wednesday, resolved to challenge the president’s decision in court.

“We cannot fold our hands and watch the democracy we have built for almost three decades be trampled upon,” he added.