Chief Olabode George accuses President Bola Tinubu of undermining Nigeria’s democracy, warning that the nation is shifting toward authoritarianism. He critiques the state’s handling of the emergency in Rivers State and calls for increased democratic accountability, highlighting how the Senate’s endorsement of the emergency rule raises significant constitutional concerns.
In a recent media briefing in Lagos, Chief Olabode George, a prominent figure in the Peoples Democratic Party, fiercely criticized President Bola Tinubu’s administration for what he described as a dangerous departure from fundamental governance principles. He suggested that Nigeria is perilously veering towards authoritarianism, stating that the essence of democracy is under siege. “Nigeria currently finds itself at a critical juncture, where the actions of the current political administration threaten to erode the very foundations of our hard-won democracy,” George asserted.
George contended that twenty-six years following the restoration of democratic governance, many Nigerians are increasingly skeptical of the government’s claims of being representative of the people’s will. He urged immediate action, emphasizing, “It is time for us to confront these challenges head-on and demand a democracy that truly serves its citizens.”
Highlighting the political turmoil in Rivers State, he condemned President Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency on March 18, 2025, which he said contributed to the unconstitutional suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and other officials. “Recent events in Rivers State are indications that the administration of our democracy remains problematic. It is noteworthy that before and even after the emergency declaration, Rivers State witnessed no significant incidents of violence—not even a chicken was killed,” George remarked.
He further criticized the President’s recent letter to the National Assembly, which sought confirmation of key appointments in Rivers State under the emergency rule. “The President’s insistence on these appointments reveals a troubling disregard for democratic principles,” George indicated, expressing concern over potential overreach and a lack of accountability in governance.
George labeled this situation as a pressing threat to Nigeria’s democratic fabric, warning that the country is “staggering dangerously on the path of self-destruction.” He pointed out the disheartening reality that Nigeria is often discussed globally for negative reasons. Additionally, he rebuked the Senate for endorsing the emergency declaration via a voice vote, neglecting the constitutional requirement for a two-thirds majority from both chambers of the National Assembly. He asked pointedly, “What is the meaning of a voice vote? Did they get the numbers?”
In closing, George called on President Tinubu to reflect on his own past statements, notably from 2013, which denounced similar emergency declarations by the former President Jonathan. “Tinubu, if your advisers won’t tell you the truth, Nigerians have spoken with one voice: your despotic tendencies—disguised as emergency measures—cannot stand,” he firmly concluded.
Chief Olabode George has raised significant concerns regarding President Bola Tinubu’s actions, claiming they undermine the integrity of Nigeria’s democracy. By criticizing the handling of the Rivers State emergency and the recent appointments under that declaration, George argues that the administration is straying towards authoritarianism. He calls for immediate accountability and emphasizes that the nation’s commitment to democratic values must be restored.
Original Source: punchng.com
