By Our Reporter
Senator Seriake Dickson has strongly condemned President Bola Tinubu’s decision to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State, arguing that the move lacks any valid justification and undermines democratic principles.
Speaking on PrimeTime with Arise TV, the former Governor of Bayelsa State expressed shock over the decision, calling it both surprising and poorly advised.
“As a committed democrat, I was stunned when the president’s proclamation was announced, and I immediately issued a statement to condemn it,” Dickson remarked.
While acknowledging concerns in Rivers, Dickson emphasized that these issues do not warrant the extreme measure of a state of emergency. He further pointed out that such a declaration does not necessitate the suspension of the governor, deputy governor, or state lawmakers.
“I have been making efforts to ensure this incident is not misconstrued as an ethnic conflict between the Ikwere and Ijaw peoples. It is crucial that leaders from all sides recognize this as a political issue, not a tribal one,” he cautioned.
The senator also raised concerns about the level of consultation prior to the proclamation, suggesting that it runs counter to the principles of constitutional democracy. “The president is familiar with the key players, yet whatever actions were taken seem inadequate. Suspending elected officials is akin to detonating a nuclear bomb in a constitutional democracy,” Dickson said.
Although he acknowledged that Section 305 of the Nigerian Constitution allows for a state of emergency under certain conditions, he questioned whether the legal criteria had been met. “Even if the conditions are met, it does not automatically justify the suspension of the governor or lawmakers,” Dickson concluded.