Chief Bode George, former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, spoke to reporters in Lagos, expressing alarm over Nigeria’s political direction. He criticized President Bola Tinubu’s decision to impose emergency rule in Rivers State, calling it a threat to democracy.
George argued that suspending elected officials, including the governor, deputy, and lawmakers, without significant violence as justification, shows an intent to favor the All Progressives Congress. He described the appointments made by Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, the Sole Administrator, as unlawful, noting that they bypass democratic processes. George highlighted that the Nigerian Constitution does not permit removing elected officials through emergency declarations.
He also questioned the National Assembly’s approval of the emergency rule, stating it lacked the required two-thirds majority vote. Recalling Tinubu’s past criticism of former President Goodluck Jonathan for less severe actions, George urged the President to reverse course to avoid a political crisis. He emphasized that Nigerians are suffering and leaders must prioritize the people’s welfare to prevent further instability.
