Abuja/Lagos – Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka has criticised the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, while the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has launched a legal challenge against President Bola Tinubu’s decision. The moves come amid growing controversy over the suspension of elected officials in the state.
Soyinka’s Critique: Federalism Under Threat
Speaking to an international news outlet, Professor Soyinka argued that the suspension of elected officers in Rivers State undermines the spirit of federalism. He expressed concern over the “over-centralised” nature of the Nigerian government, stating that the 1999 constitution grants excessive power to the president.
“I believe that this is against the federal spirit of association,” Soyinka said, calling for a national conference to address the country’s constitutional foundation. He argued that the present system is “not the best for a pluralistic society like ours.”
SERAP’s Legal Challenge: Constitutional Violation
SERAP has taken President Tinubu to court, challenging the “unlawful suspension” of the Rivers State Governor, his deputy, and House of Assembly members. The organisation argues that the president’s action violates constitutional provisions and undermines democratic governance.
The lawsuit, filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja, seeks to overturn the suspension and the appointment of a sole administrator for the state. SERAP contends that “the rule of law would be a mere figure of speech if the people’s right to participation can be arbitrarily suspended or violated.” They also quoted that the action taken by the president contradicts both the Nigerian Constitution and international legal obligations.
Presidential Response: Constitutional Duty
In response, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Temitope Ajayi, stated that President Tinubu acted within his constitutional powers. He dismissed Soyinka’s and former President Goodluck Jonathan’s opinions as personal views.
“President Tinubu has a duty to preserve the corporate existence of Nigeria,” Ajayi said. “He won’t allow any part of the country or state to descend into chaos.” He added that the Supreme Court had ruled that there was no functioning government in Rivers State.
Reactions and Analysis:
The strong reactions from prominent figures like Wole Soyinka and organisations like SERAP highlight the deep divisions surrounding the Rivers State situation. Concerns over the overreach of presidential power and the erosion of federalism are central to the debate. The legal challenge by SERAP underscores the gravity of the situation and the potential for a protracted legal battle. The presidential response, citing constitutional duty, sets the stage for a clash between executive authority and the principles of federalism.
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