Rivers State Drama: Reuben Abati Slams President Tinubu Over Emergency Declaration

Ex-Spokesperson Reuben Abati Takes a Stand Against Tinubu's Decision

Well, here’s something that’s making waves in Nigerian politics. Reuben Abati, the seasoned journalist and former presidential spokesperson, is not holding back his thoughts on President Bola Tinubu’s recent decision to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State. This move has sparked a heated debate, and Abati is adding fuel to the fire with his sharp critique.

Talking on Wednesday, just after the President made his announcement, Abati laid out his concerns loud and clear. According to him, Tinubu’s decision to suspend Governor Siminalayi Fubara, along with his deputy and the entire State House of Assembly for six months, is a serious overreach of presidential authority. He argues that President Tinubu has essentially taken on powers that don’t belong to him, powers that should be left to the Rivers State House of Assembly. And here’s the kicker—he says this kind of action is considered an impeachable offense.

Abati Calls Out Tinubu's Constitutional Violation

Now, let’s dive deeper into what Abati is saying. He believes that the National Assembly has a crucial role to play here. They have the power to reject President Tinubu’s proclamation or even initiate impeachment proceedings against him. But here’s the million-dollar question: will they have the guts to do it? Abati seems skeptical, pointing out that it remains to be seen whether lawmakers will take the bold step of challenging the President.

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Abati also emphasized that a governor elected through the democratic process can’t simply be removed by the President’s unilateral declaration. In his words, “President Tinubu has appropriated to himself the powers to make laws for the Rivers State House of Assembly, which is an impeachable offense. I don’t know whether the National Assembly will have the courage to either reject his proclamation or proceed with the issue of impeachment against him for violating the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

Constitutional Requirements Not Met, Says Abati

Here’s where things get even more interesting. Abati claims that Tinubu’s actions don’t align with the requirements for declaring a state of emergency as outlined in Section 305 of the Nigerian Constitution—the very same section Tinubu referenced during his speech. He argues that the President was misinformed by his advisors, including the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN). In essence, Abati believes President Tinubu has violated the constitution with this declaration, and it’s a big deal.

Ekwe Ibas: A Call to Integrity

Abati didn’t stop there. He also turned his attention to Vice Admiral Ekwe Ibas (rtd), who was appointed as the Administrator for Rivers State. Abati urged Ibas to reject the appointment, calling it a "wrong appointment" that puts his integrity on the line. If Ibas is truly a patriot, Abati suggests, he should step back and let the legal and constitutional processes play out as they should.

So there you have it—a powerful critique from a man who knows a thing or two about politics. Whether or not these words will resonate with those in power remains to be seen, but one thing’s for sure—this situation is far from over.

Watch the full video below to hear Abati's thoughts in his own words.