Soyinka Condemns Rivers Emergency Rule, Says It Violates Federalism

President Bola Tinubu’s proclamation of a state of emergency in Rivers state, according to Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka, undermines the spirit of federalism.

Due to the political unrest and instability in the oil-rich state, Tinubu proclaimed emergency rule on Tuesday.

Additionally, he imposed a six-month initial suspension on all members of the Rivers legislature, Siminalayi Fubara, the state’s governor, and his deputy, Ngozi Odu.

The president immediately appointed Ibok-Ete Ibas, a retired naval chief, as the state’s sole administrator.

Speaking with The Africa Report, Soyinka said the Nigerian constitution gives the president too much power.

Commenting on the legality of the declaration, Soyinka said there is a need to amend some sections of the constitution.

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He also said it is debatable if the move was a wise one.

“If it is constitutionally right, then I think it is about time we sat down and amended the constitution to make sure that it operates as a genuine federal entity,” Soyinka said.

“The government is over-centralised. The debate will go on whether this (state of emergency) was, in the first place, a wise decision but in terms of fundamental principles, I believe that this is against the federal spirit of association.

“I find that the constitution has put too much power in the hands of the president. The system we are operating right now is not the best for a pluralistic society like ours. That is a fundamental principle I have always held.”

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The playwright further reiterated his call for a national conference which he said would provide an opportunity to “really accord ourselves an authentic people’s constitution”.

“The federal spirit of association is a cardinal principle… right now, in principle, this action is against the federal imperative,” he said.