Ex-PDP Aspirant Bashir Sambauna Slams Tinubu’s Overreach in Fubara’s Suspension

Hon. Bashar Aliyu Sambauna, a former PDP aspirant for the Ungogo/Minjibir Federal Constituency in Kano State during the 2023 elections, has strongly condemned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, Ngozi Odu, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, calling it a violation of democratic principles.

In a statement issued on Thursday, he noted that while Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution allows the President to declare a state of emergency under specific conditions, it does not grant him the power to suspend elected officials.

“The suspension of Governor Fubara and other elected officials under the guise of a state of emergency is an unconstitutional overreach. The 1999 Constitution does not permit such executive actions, and we must resist any attempt to undermine democracy and the rule of law,” Sambauna stated.

He further emphasized that constitutional procedures must be followed.

“The Constitution is clear on the procedures for removing a governor or deputy governor, which are outlined in Section 188. What we are witnessing is a dangerous precedent that threatens the foundation of our democracy.”

Legal experts and political figures have raised similar concerns. Dr. Reuben Abati, a former media aide to President Goodluck Jonathan, described the action as an “impeachable offense,” emphasizing that the President lacks the constitutional authority to unilaterally remove a governor. Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), also condemned the move, stressing that Section 305 does not permit the suspension of elected officials.

“History has shown that democracy thrives when constitutional boundaries are respected. Any attempt to sideline due process in Rivers State is not only illegal but sets a dangerous precedent that must not stand,” Sambauna added.

Historical precedents have been cited to challenge the legitimacy of the action. Sambauna recalled that during President Jonathan’s administration, a state of emergency was declared in Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa States in 2013 due to insurgency, yet the governors of these states remained in office.

“Even under former President Olusegun Obasanjo, when a state of emergency was declared in Plateau State in 2004, the suspension of the governor was met with widespread criticism and legal challenges. It is clear that such actions are not in line with constitutional norms,” he added.

Sambauna called on the National Assembly to intervene.

“Any action perceived as executive overreach weakens our democracy and the rule of law. The Federal Government must respect constitutional provisions and avoid setting a dangerous precedent that could be exploited in the future,” he warned.

Sambauna also addressed youth empowerment initiatives, particularly those led by Seyi Tinubu in northern and southern Nigeria.

While acknowledging Mr. Tinubu’s distribution of foodstuffs in the North and financial support for entrepreneurs in the South, he stressed the need for sustainable empowerment strategies in northern Nigeria.

“The North needs more than food relief; we need long-term strategies that focus on skill acquisition, entrepreneurship support, and education. Our youths are eager to build their futures, and they require sustainable initiatives that promote economic independence,” he stated.

Sambauna urged both governmental and non-governmental organizations to invest in programs that ensure lasting economic development for young people in the North.

“Equitable development should be a priority. Every region deserves strategic empowerment initiatives that provide real opportunities, not just temporary relief,” he added.

The post Ex-PDP Aspirant Bashir Sambauna Slams Tinubu’s Overreach in Fubara’s Suspension appeared first on Kano Times.