By: Daure David
The Renowned Nigerian playwright, activist, and Nobel laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, has strongly condemned the suspension of Rivers State Governor, Sim Fubara, and the subsequent declaration of a state of emergency in the state. Soyinka argues that the actions are a direct violation of the principles of federalism enshrined in the Nigerian constitution.
In a statement issued earlier today, Soyinka described the suspension as an unprecedented move that undermines the autonomy of state governments and the very fabric of Nigeria’s federal system. “This suspension, coupled with the declaration of a state of emergency, is fundamentally against the spirit of federalism,” Soyinka said, emphasizing that such actions erode the checks and balances that ensure a fair distribution of power between the federal and state governments.
The suspension of Governor Fubara and the imposition of a state of emergency in Rivers State have raised concerns across political, legal, and civil society circles. The federal government has cited ongoing security challenges as the primary reason for these drastic measures. However, Soyinka views the move as an overreach of presidential power.
In his statement, Soyinka called for a critical revision of Nigeria’s constitution, specifically to limit the scope of the president’s powers. He stressed that such constitutional amendments should be aimed at preventing the centralization of authority, which he argued could lead to authoritarianism.
“The president’s unchecked powers have led to an imbalance in the governance system, and the recent events in Rivers State exemplify the dangers of this concentration of power,” Soyinka said. He emphasized that the current state of affairs calls for an urgent dialogue on the structure of Nigerian governance to ensure greater accountability and protect the rights of citizens.
The veteran activist also urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and continue to demand democratic principles that safeguard the independence of state governments and prevent any erosion of constitutional freedoms.
As the political landscape continues to shift, all eyes are on the federal government and the ongoing debate surrounding Nigeria’s federal system. Public opinion remains divided, with some defending the president’s actions as necessary for national security, while others see them as an attack on the constitutional rights of the states.
With Soyinka’s call for constitutional reform gaining traction, the conversation surrounding Nigeria’s governance model is expected to intensify in the coming months.
