Falz Criticizes President Tinubu's State of Emergency Declaration in Rivers State

Renowned Nigerian rapper and lawyer, Folarin Falana, popularly known as Falz, has raised concerns over the State of Emergency declared in Rivers State by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The declaration, which was announced during a nationwide broadcast on Tuesday, has sparked outrage and debates across the country.

President Tinubu’s decision included the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly. Additionally, the President nominated Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) as the Administrator to oversee the affairs of the state for the next six months.

Falz Questions The Constitutionality Of The Declaration

Reacting via his X handle on Tuesday night, Falz, who is also a lawyer, expressed his disapproval of the President’s actions, questioning the legality of the move.

According to Falz, the President lacks the legal standing to suspend a duly elected Governor. He emphasized that a Governor can only be removed through a proper impeachment process, not by presidential decree.

His statement read:

“Rivers State, there is absolutely no law that allows a president to SUSPEND a governor. A Governor is elected into office and may only be removed by impeachment.
Also, is Rivers state at war? Is there ‘actual breakdown of public order?’ Is there a threat to the existence of the federation?”

Falz’s concerns highlight a fundamental question about the extent of executive powers and whether such a drastic measure is constitutionally justified.

Opinion: Is The Declaration Of State Of Emergency Truly Necessary?

The decision to declare a State of Emergency in Rivers State raises significant constitutional and ethical questions. While the President may act to restore peace and stability, suspending an elected governor and legislative body seems like an extreme measure that should only be used when all other avenues have been exhausted.

Falz’s assertion that Rivers State is not at war and that there is no evidence of an actual breakdown of public order brings to the fore the issue of executive overreach. Is this action truly in the interest of the people of Rivers State, or is it a politically motivated move disguised as a response to a supposed crisis?

It’s crucial that the Nigerian government adheres to due process and constitutional provisions. Any attempt to circumvent the law, no matter the reason, sets a dangerous precedent that could undermine the country’s democracy.