Chief Anabs Sara-Igbe has voiced deep concern over the potential consequences of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent actions, cautioning that such moves could create a dangerous precedent, particularly for states governed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
He accused the National Assembly of enabling what he described as the President’s disregard for constitutional procedures. According to Sara-Igbe, lawmakers should be wary of their support, as they could eventually face similar political backlash.
“If the National Assembly believes this is a leader they can trust, they should be cautious because eventually, he will turn against them,” Sara-Igbe warned.
The chief clarified that there was no objection to the President’s intervention, comparing the situation to a father mediating a conflict between two children.
“You must be fair to both children. You cannot beat one and leave the other causing trouble. It is not possible. It is not right. A father must be fair to all his children. You cannot love one and show the other child that I love this one more than you,” he stated.
While acknowledging the President’s power to declare a state of emergency under Section 305 of the constitution, Sara-Igbe argued that the President’s authority does not extend to suspending or removing a governor.
He referenced constitutional sections 182, 183, 188, and 189, insisting that the procedure for removing a governor or deputy governor is clearly defined, and no part grants the President such power.
He expressed disappointment with the Attorney General’s advice to the President, suggesting it was flawed and warning that democracy itself could be at risk.
“Our democracy is at risk because you must stand by the truth. You are suspending a governor, an elected governor of Rivers State, and you are not suspending or sacking the minister who is fomenting all the problems,” Sara-Igbe concluded.
