19
Mar
Mar
PRESIDENT TINUBU’S STATE OF EMERGENCY DECLARATION: A CASE OF POLITICAL DOUBLE STANDARDS?
-
CapitalTimesNews / 2 months
- 0
- 2 min read
President Bola Tinubu’s recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State has sparked controversy, particularly given his past criticism of former President Goodluck Jonathan’s similar actions. In 2013, Jonathan had declared a state of emergency in Adamawa, Yobe, and Borno States, citing security concerns. At the time, Tinubu, then National Leader of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), had vehemently criticized Jonathan’s decision, describing it as “a dangerous trend in the art of governance” with “political undertones.” Tinubu had argued that such actions could “give root to radical ideologies and extremist tendencies” and were “unwarranted and unintelligent meddlesomeness.” However, Tinubu’s current decision to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State, citing a prolonged political crisis, has raised questions about his consistency on the matter. Critics argue that Tinubu’s past criticism of Jonathan’s actions was politically motivated, and that his current decision is a case of double standards. The similarities between the two situations are striking. In both cases, the presidents cited security concerns and a breakdown in governance as justification for declaring a state of emergency. However, Tinubu’s past criticism of Jonathan’s actions suggests that he may have been motivated by political considerations rather than a genuine concern for the welfare of the people. The declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State has significant implications for the state’s governance and the rule of law. The suspension of the state’s elected officials, including Governor Siminalayi Fubara, has raised concerns about the erosion of democratic institutions and the potential for abuse of power. Ultimately, the controversy surrounding Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State highlights the need for consistency and transparency in governance. As the nation watches the unfolding events in Rivers State, it remains to be seen whether Tinubu’s actions will be guided by a genuine commitment to the rule of law and democratic principles, or by political expediency.
