President Bola Tinubu’s decision to suspend Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State amid the ongoing political crisis has sparked widespread reactions. The crisis, involving Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, reached a peak on March 18 when the President declared a state of emergency in the oil-rich state.
The suspension has been met with strong opposition from various stakeholders, including at least two sitting governors, who have criticized Tinubu’s action as unconstitutional.
The tension between Governor Fubara and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Nyesom Wike began six months after Fubara assumed office. Their dispute revolves around control of the state’s political structure, leading to attempts by lawmakers to impeach the governor.
Following reports of pipeline vandalism in Rivers, President Tinubu announced the suspension of the governor and members of the state legislature. This move has drawn criticism from political figures, including some state governors.
1. Seyi Makinde (Oyo State)
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, a key figure in the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has publicly condemned the suspension of Governor Fubara. He emphasized that democracy must be upheld, regardless of political allegiances, and labeled the President’s action as unconstitutional. Makinde also hinted that PDP governors plan to challenge the decision in the Supreme Court.
2. Bala Mohammed (Bauchi State)
Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed has also criticized President Tinubu’s decision. Speaking on behalf of 12 PDP governors, Mohammed questioned the President’s failure to address the role of Wike in the crisis. The PDP governors have called for the immediate reversal of Fubara’s suspension, accusing Tinubu of politicizing the situation.
Titilope Anifowoshe, a legal expert, weighed in on the controversy. She argued that suspending Fubara was necessary to prevent economic instability, given Rivers State’s crucial role in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
“Rivers State is vital to Nigeria’s economy due to its significant oil and gas contributions. Any instability in the state could have far-reaching consequences for the country’s economic stability,” Anifowoshe stated.
