The Institute of Law Research & Development (ILAWDUN), a prominent US-based legal body, has urged President Bola Tinubu to reverse the suspension of Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara. The institute cautioned that failing to do so could significantly damage the President’s legacy.
In a statement released on Monday, ILAWDUN stressed that the suspension undermines democratic values and threatens the constitutional integrity of Nigeria.
The statement, authored by Professor Cyprian Edward-Ekpo, Director of ILAWDUN and Professor of International Environmental and Public International Law, condemned both the suspension and the subsequent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State. The institute warned that these actions could set a dangerous precedent for the nation’s democracy.
The statement read: “Should the Supreme Court uphold the emergency declaration and the suspension of a democratically elected governor and legislature by another democratically elected official, your legacy will be permanently tarnished. History will remember you as the President who undermined constitutional principles and legitimized unlawful actions.”
ILAWDUN emphasized that a state of emergency should only be declared when there is a genuine breakdown of law and order that overwhelms the capacity of the Nigeria Police Force—a situation that did not exist in Rivers State.
The institute argued that suspending a democratically elected governor and legislature by a sitting president is unconstitutional and cannot be justified by a state of emergency absent a legitimate breakdown in law and order.
The statement further warned that such actions would harm President Tinubu’s legacy, portraying him as a leader who disregarded the rule of law.
The Supreme Court of Nigeria is currently hearing a case filed by seven opposition governors challenging the legality of the suspension.
ILAWDUN cautioned that any attempt to dismiss the case on technical grounds would undermine public trust in both the judiciary and the President’s commitment to upholding democracy.
“The Supreme Court Justices cannot, in good conscience, endorse such an obvious violation of the constitution. If the Court dismisses the case on technicalities or employs dubious tactics, it will be viewed as judicial compromise under your influence, further eroding public confidence in both the judiciary and your administration,” Professor Edward-Ekpo stated.
ILAWDUN called on the President to act promptly, reverse the suspension, and reaffirm his dedication to democratic principles, warning that the future of Nigeria’s democratic institutions is at stake.
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