Today’s Headlines: Fubara Remains Rivers Governor–PDP; I’ll Work With Stakeholders – Ibas
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has insisted that Siminalayi Fubara remains the Governor of Rivers State, describing President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a State of Emergency as illegal, unconstitutional, and null and void.
Addressing journalists in Abuja on Wednesday, after an emergency meeting of the National Working Committee (NWC), PDP National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Debo Ologunagba, stated that Tinubu lacks the constitutional authority to remove a democratically elected governor, his deputy, or the State Assembly.
Ologunagba reaffirmed the party’s position that Tinubu’s State of Emergency in Rivers State cannot stand, as it violates multiple provisions of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
“The purported suspension of Governor Fubara is unconstitutional, impracticable, invalid, and completely out of the question. No provision of the Constitution empowers the President to dismantle a sub-national government or suspend a democratically elected governor under any circumstances.”
He accused Tinubu of attempting to suspend the 1999 Constitution, overturn a democratic government, and impose an undemocratic regime, citing violations of Sections 1(2), 14(2)(a), 180, 217(2)(b)(c), and 305(2) of the Constitution.
Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, the Administrator of Rivers State, has said he would work with all stakeholders to maintain law and order in the state.
Ibas said this while addressing State House correspondents after his swearing in by President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Wednesday.
Mr Lateef Fagbemi, the Attorney General of the Federation and Justice Minister; Femi Gbajabiamila, the Chief of Staff to the President, and other aides of the President witnessed the short inauguration ceremony at the State House.
Ibas said: “First, I think we know the circumstances that led to where we are here. And Mr President made it very clear in his broadcast that the main issue is that of maintaining law and order in the state.
“I think for any meaningful activities to take place in River State, that is the utmost task.
“I have to work together with all other stakeholders to ensure that we bring peace, order, and security and stability to the people and government of River State and Nigeria at large.”
