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. Related Articles (LMSINT Media) BUY ANYTHING ON KONG BUY NOW Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
UK ministers evaluate closing a “loophole” allowing gender changes on passports. Kemi Badenoch, the leader of the UK’s Conservative Party, recently emphasized the importance of effective governance in her first speech of the year. Speaking at an event hosted by Onward, a British think tank dedicated to economic and social research, Badenoch drew parallels between governance issues in Nigeria and potential risks facing the United Kingdom. Building Trust and Avoiding Governance Pitfalls During her address, Badenoch highlighted the need for trust and leadership within the Conservative Party, positioning it as the answer to Britain’s current challenges. She warned that systemic failures could lead the UK down a path similar to Nigeria’s governance troubles. “And why does this matter so much to me? It’s because I know what it is like to have something and then to lose it,” Badenoch shared passionately. “I don’t want Britain to lose what it has. “I grew up in a poor country and watched my relatively wealthy family become poorer and poorer, despite working harder and harder as their money disappeared with inflation. “I came back to the UK aged 16 with my father’s last £100 in the hope of a better life. “So I have lived with the consequences of terrible governments that destroy lives, and I never, ever want it to happen here.” Controversy in Nigeria Badenoch’s remarks have sparked renewed criticism in Nigeria, her country of origin. Known for her outspoken views, she has often faced backlash for comments perceived as critical of Nigeria. In a recent response, Nigeria’s Vice-President Kashim Shettima accused Badenoch of “constantly denigrating” the nation. Before assuming leadership of the Conservative Party, Badenoch had described Nigeria as a socialist state plagued by corruption and insecurity. She also recalled personal experiences, including an incident where Nigerian police officers allegedly robbed her and stole her brother’s shoes. Despite her family’s relative affluence, she recounted hardships such as walking long distances to fetch water. A Call to Action By sharing her experiences, Badenoch aims to inspire a renewed focus on governance and the preservation of Britain’s stability. Her story is a poignant reminder of the consequences of leadership failures and the importance of safeguarding national prosperity. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed has raised concerns over President Bola Tinubu’s proposed tax reform bills, warning that the legislation could lead to regional imbalance and unrest in Nigeria. He described the reforms as unfavorable to northern Nigeria and urged the presidency to reconsider. Speaking on Thursday at the Government House in Bauchi while addressing the Christian community, Mohammed expressed his dissatisfaction with the bills currently being debated in the National Assembly. He argued that the proposed reforms are disproportionately designed to benefit a specific part of the country while neglecting the needs of the northern region. Key Concerns Highlighted by Governor Bala Mohammed Warning to the Presidency Governor Mohammed, who also serves as the chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors Forum, cautioned that if the presidency ignores the concerns raised by northern stakeholders, it risks fostering an environment of discontent and potential anarchy. He stated, “The presidency must pay attention to these cries about tax reform. This policy is not good for northern Nigeria. Without adequate funding, we cannot build roads or pay salaries. Policies must promote national unity, not division.” Regional Opposition to the Reform The proposed tax bills have faced rejection from northern governors, lawmakers, and the National Economic Council, led by Vice President Kashim Shettima. Critics argue that the reforms threaten to deepen economic disparities between regions and undermine the principle of equitable development. Governor Mohammed concluded his address by reaffirming the need for policies that serve the interests of all Nigerians, regardless of religion, ethnicity, or regional affiliation. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
