Amaechi Accuses Tinubu Of Violating Nigerian Constitution Amid Rivers State Emergency

Former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has openly accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of violating Nigeria’s constitution over his handling of the political crisis in Rivers State. Amaechi expressed strong concern about what he described as the unconstitutional removal of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the subsequent declaration of a state of emergency, actions he believes undermine the rule of law and democratic values in the country.

Speaking at the 9th Annual Leadership Discourse hosted by the Akinjide Adeosun Foundation (AAF) in Lagos, themed “Fearless Leadership: A Panacea for Sustainable Development”, the former Rivers State Governor criticized the decision as a breach of the country’s highest legal authority—the Constitution.

Amaechi Blasts Weak National Assembly

Amaechi did not only criticize the president but also expressed deep disappointment in the National Assembly, which he labeled a “very weak institution” for allegedly aiding and abetting what he termed the installation of an unconstitutional government in Rivers State.

“In a system where leaders act on their whims rather than the law, governance becomes tyrannical,” he said. “The current state of emergency declared in Rivers State is not just illegal—it violates the very sacredness of our Constitution.”

He continued, “What we are witnessing is not merely a disregard for legal principles, but a complete breakdown of constitutional order. The president didn’t just break the law; he broke the Nigerian Constitution.”

Violation of Democratic Norms

Rotimi Amaechi likened the Nigerian Constitution to a sacred document, comparing it to a nation’s Bible, whose sanctity should not be compromised. He lamented that despite the removal of a duly elected governor and the appointment of a retired military officer, Ibok-Ete Ibas, as an administrator, there has been no public accountability or major institutional resistance.

“The removal of an elected governor and his deputy, followed by appointing a military administrator, signals a dangerous drift away from democracy,” Amaechi warned.

Background on the Rivers State Crisis

The crisis in Rivers State escalated in recent weeks following political disagreements within the state assembly. In response, President Tinubu declared a state of emergency, suspended the governor and his deputy, and installed a military administrator. This move has sparked outrage among political analysts, civil society groups, and opposition leaders across the country.