The Northern Elders Forum (NEF), on Friday, cautioned the Federal Government against engaging in political vendetta over the ongoing crisis in Rivers State, which has led to the declaration of a state of emergency and the suspension of the Governor, Deputy Governor, and State Assembly members for six months.
The forum expressed deep concern over the situation, emphasizing that while the President is empowered under Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) to declare a state of emergency, such action must be justified by specific conditions outlined in the law.
NEF spokesperson Professor Abubakar Jika Jiddere, in a statement, reminded the President that the ability to resolve political disputes through negotiation, mediation, conciliation, arbitration, and adjudication is a hallmark of democratic maturity.
Jiddere said: “Subject to the provision of this constitution, the president may by instrument published in the official Gazette of the Government of the Federation issue a proclamation of a state of emergency in the Federation or any part thereof.
“However, the president can only do so, if and only if, any the conditions stated in subsection 3 of Section 305 actually occurs which includes war, imminent invasion, breakdown of public order, clear and present danger, disaster or natural calamity, other public danger, or a request from the Governor of the State.
“It is a public knowledge and indisputable fact that none of these conditions actually happened in Rivers State. Except perhaps for personal vendetta in alliance with the President’s serving Federal Minister of the FCT and the immediate past Governor of Rivers State who has been in personal conflict with the suspended Governor for selfish interests rather than public good.
“The maintenance of peace, public order and corporate existence of the Federal Republic of Nigeria cannot be compromised on personal aggrandizement, and should be the primary concern of each Nigerian.
“As such any form of disturbance in any part of the country will have a serious negative tendency and impact on the whole country.
“The Federal Government and the President in particular must find a viable and permanent solution to the political crisis in Rivers State, and also immediately lift the suspension of the Governor, Deputy Governor and State Assembly to restore the spirit of democracy, justice and public order.”
NEF urged the Federal Government to prevent the escalation of political disputes in other states, particularly in Kano, where tensions continue over the traditional leadership of the Kano Emirate.
He added, “The naked and brutal abuse of political power can only pose imminent danger to the democratic processes in Nigeria which is currently facing serious numerous challenges.”
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