Suspension of Democracy: Tinubu’s Unconstitutional Coup and the Hidden Culprit Nyesom Wike

An Assault on Nigeria’s Democracy

President Bola Tinubu’s decision to suspend Rivers State’s elected leaders and impose a military sole administrator is a direct attack on democracy. This move, framed as a response to political instability, violates constitutional principles and undermines federalism.

The Nigerian Constitution’s Section 305 grants the President emergency powers under specific conditions. However, removing elected officials is not one of them. The Nigerian Bar Association has emphasized that a state of emergency does not automatically dissolve democratic institutions. Tinubu’s decision sets a dangerous precedent where any governor could be removed under similar claims.

Political Instability: Who Is to Blame?

Many blame Governor Siminalayi Fubara for Rivers State’s governance issues, but the real architect of this crisis is Nyesom Wike. As a former governor and now a federal minister, Wike has orchestrated political conflicts in the state to maintain control.

Wike’s influence runs deep. He built a network of loyalists, controlled political appointments, and undermined any opposition within the state. His actions created the instability Tinubu used as justification for the takeover. Instead of addressing Wike’s interference, the federal government chose to punish an elected governor.

Bending the Rules to Favor Political Allies

Tinubu’s intervention exposes clear political bias. His government swiftly removed an elected leader but ignored Wike’s destabilizing tactics. This selective application of justice reveals a dangerous pattern—leaders aligned with the federal government can act with impunity, while others face harsh consequences.

Selective Enforcement: Other States in Crisis

Rivers State is not the only state experiencing political turmoil. However, Tinubu’s administration has ignored other crisis-ridden states where intervention might have been justified. This further exposes the double standard at play.

Kano State: A Political Battle Ignored

Kano State has faced prolonged political instability due to the battle between Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and the opposition. The courts have been used as a weapon, with electoral disputes threatening governance. Despite the clear instability, the federal government has remained passive, allowing the crisis to fester without intervention.

Benue State: Leadership Crisis Overlooked

Benue State has struggled with leadership disputes and internal division, particularly between the state government and federal-backed interests. Violence and political infighting have affected governance, but there has been no drastic federal response.

Zamfara State: Rising Insurgency and Political Infighting

Zamfara has seen worsening security issues, with bandits overrunning communities. Despite this clear emergency, the federal government has done little to impose special measures or intervene politically. If the justification for Rivers State’s military takeover was instability, why has Zamfara been left to suffer?

The Consequences of Executive Overreach

Suspending elected officials weakens democracy and emboldens future leaders to rule by decree. When a president can remove a governor without due process, federalism loses meaning. The people’s right to choose their leaders is at risk.

Furthermore, allowing political figures like Wike to manipulate state affairs without consequences deepens distrust in government. If citizens see justice applied selectively, they lose faith in democratic institutions.

How Nigerians Can Reclaim Their Rights

1. Demand Judicial Oversight

The judiciary must intervene to uphold constitutional order. Legal challenges should contest Tinubu’s decision and set clear limits on emergency powers.

2. Strengthen Civil Society

Citizens must support organizations that promote democracy and accountability. Groups like YIAGA Africa and SERAP play key roles in exposing abuses of power.

3. Push for Institutional Reforms

Nigeria needs reforms that prevent executive overreach. Lawmakers should introduce measures that protect state governments from arbitrary federal interference.

4. Hold All Leaders Accountable

Selective justice must end. If Fubara faces consequences, Wike must as well. No political figure should be above the law.

Tinubu’s decision to suspend Rivers State’s leadership is not about restoring order—it is about consolidating power. Meanwhile, Nyesom Wike, a key figure in the crisis, remains untouched. This imbalance exposes the government’s selective enforcement of accountability.

Nigerians must resist any form of authoritarianism. By demanding justice, strengthening institutions, and pushing for reforms, the people can prevent further erosion of democracy. If unchecked, this crisis could mark the beginning of a dangerous trend—one where elected leaders serve only at the pleasure of the presidency.