In a recent emergency meeting held on December 19, 2023, the Rivers Elders and Leaders Forum addressed the political crisis in Rivers State, prompted by President Alhaji Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s intervention. Despite acknowledging the President’s swift response, concerns were raised regarding the effectiveness of the directives issued.
The Forum expressed appreciation for the President’s intervention but questioned whether it had truly resolved the crisis or exacerbated it. A critical examination of the President’s directives revealed several points of contention.
Firstly, the Forum asserted that the directives violated the constitution, particularly by unilaterally suspending it through an attempt to reverse a court order recognizing Rt. Honourable Edison Ehie as the speaker. This raised concerns about the infringement on the constitution Mr. President pledged to uphold.
Secondly, the Forum criticized the directives for undermining the separation of powers, especially in relation to the judiciary. The question of whether the executive arm can overrule decisions of competent courts was posed, highlighting concerns about executive overreach and its impact on democracy, rule of law, and good governance.
Furthermore, the Forum pointed out the one-sided nature of the directives, favoring Chief Barr. Nyesom Wike over Governor Siminialayi Fubara and the people of Rivers State. The assertion that the President’s directives exhibited executive rascality and compromised due process was emphasized.
The Forum also argued against the reinstatement of Rt. Hon. Martins Amaewhule and his team, citing legal and due process considerations. The comparison with the FCT Minister’s role in providing accommodation for legislators in Abuja underscored the perceived hypocrisy in the directives.
Additionally, the Forum criticized the directive to re-present the budget, considering it an attempt to demean the Governor’s office, the people of Rivers State, and the judiciary.
The Forum urged responsible citizens to unite in defending the soul of Rivers State against perceived injustice and criminality. The communique concluded with a firm condemnation of the directives, asserting that any resolution undermining the principle of separation of powers and the rule of law would be resisted using constitutional means.
The communique, eloquently delivered by former Rivers State Governor Chief Rufus Ada George, echoes the Forum’s commitment to upholding constitutional democracy and the welfare of Rivers State and Nigeria at large.