"This Is Fascism!" - Chief Emeka Kalu Blasts Tinubu's Emergency Rule in Rivers

The controversial state of emergency in Rivers State, declared by President Bola Tinubu, continues to generate heated debates, with governance expert Chief Emeka Kalu calling it a blatant abuse of power and a move towards dictatorship.

In a strongly worded statement, Kalu argued that the decision to suspend Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his administration, and the Rivers State House of Assembly is unconstitutional and contradicts the principles of Nigeria's federal system.

"Tinubu Has Violated the ConstitutionÔÇØ - Kalu

According to Chief Emeka Kalu, under a true federal system, the protection of national assets and security is the sole responsibility of the federal government, not the state government. He criticized the FG's attempt to shift the blame for security failures onto Governor Fubara, insisting that Tinubu's government should take full responsibility for failing to secure its own infrastructure.

"By suspending an elected governor and imposing emergency rule, the federal government has trampled on the same democratic principles it swore to uphold," Kalu stated.

"This Is a Political Coup Disguised as Emergency Rule"

Kalu warned that the state of emergency could trigger violence in Rivers State, noting that the region's fragile political and economic stability could be severely affected. He emphasized that Nigeria's oil-rich economy is at risk, as political instability could lead to sabotage of oil facilities and economic downturn.

He further accused the federal government of using legal technicalities as a smokescreen to impose control over Rivers State, calling it an attempt to please certain political gladiators who believe governance must revolve around their interests.

A Dangerous Precedent for Nigeria

Critics argue that Tinubu's action is reminiscent of the fascist era, where power was wielded without regard for constitutional processes. Kalu warned that if the situation is not reversed, it could set a dangerous precedent for the removal of other governors under similar excuses.

"Nigeria is gradually losing its democratic values. The phrase 'a nation where no one is oppressed' from our national anthem has lost its meaning," he lamented.

"Rescind This Decision NowÔÇØ - Kalu Urges Tinubu

Kalu called on the federal government to immediately reverse its decision and seek alternative means of resolving the crisis in Rivers State. He cautioned that hasty and unconstitutional actions could deepen political instability and further erode public trust in governance.

"Democracy cannot thrive in an environment where opposition is stifled and legal processes are ignored. The government must tread carefully and respect the Constitution," he concluded.

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