Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore has accused President Bola Tinubu of sacrificing Rivers State’s governance to please political ally Nyesom Wike, following a state of emergency declaration. He argues that this action undermines democracy and calls for Nigerian citizens to unite for accountability and reform. Sowore critiques the roles of both the National Assembly and the Attorney General in enabling this political situation, underscoring a broader fight for democratic integrity in Nigeria.
In a recent statement, human rights activist Omoyele Sowore criticized President Bola Tinubu for declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State and accused him of undermining the democratic process. Sowore asserts that this action amounts to anarchy, as it involved the removal of a democratically elected governor and the installation of a sole administrator. He contends that this move caters to the political interests of Tinubu’s ally, Nyesom Wike, and is contrary to the wishes of the citizens of Rivers State.
Sowore further elaborated during an interview on Channels TV, expressing concerns about the implications of sacrificing Rivers State, one of Nigeria’s wealthiest, for political gain. He highlighted Wike’s alleged role in assisting Tinubu with electoral manipulation to secure his presidency. Sowore emphasized that the actions of Tinubu and Wike appear aimed at controlling the state’s finances and strategizing for future elections, thereby undermining democratic principles.
The activist criticized the premature actions taken by the federal government, stating that the National Assembly had not even been consulted before implementing such drastic measures. He expressed disillusionment, characterizing the assembly as ineffective in its capacity to serve as a check on executive power. Sowore emphasized the necessity for Nigerians to awaken and realize the importance of collective action in reclaiming their democracy.
Sowore outlined the urgent need for accountability in governance, lamenting that those who should promote progress often do the opposite. He urged the Nigerian populace to rise against what he termed the real anarchy, which he attributes to federal overreach and unlawful actions. He insists that justice cannot be compromised for the sake of maintaining superficial peace.
Critically evaluating the role of the Attorney General, Lateef Fagbemi, Sowore condemned the enabling of impunity within the Nigerian legal system. He argued that historically, the Attorney General has often facilitated undemocratic practices, exacerbating the nation’s governance crises. According to him, this unchecked power distorts the essence of democracy and should be scrutinized more closely.
Sowore directly countered accusations of promoting anarchy, asserting that true anarchy arises from federal government actions that disrupt established democratic institutions. He maintained that the real threat to democracy in Nigeria stems from the government’s disregard for lawful governance. Sowore concluded by declaring that naming or labeling dissenting voices is less important than addressing the root problems of democratic erosion in Nigeria.
In summary, Sowore’s claims reflect significant concerns regarding the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic processes, particularly in light of President Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State. The imposition of a sole administrator in place of an elected governor, allegedly to benefit political allies, raises serious questions about governmental accountability and public representation. Sowore calls for a collective awakening among Nigerians to reclaim their democracy and emphasizes the need for scrutiny of any legal offices that may enable unjust governance. The ongoing political situation in Rivers State underscores a critical crossroads for Nigeria’s future regarding democracy and civil rights.
Original Source: saharareporters.com
