In a fiery response to President Bola Tinubu’s recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, Chief Bode George, the former Deputy National Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), has accused the president of showing blatant disregard for constitutional authority.
Reacting sharply to the move, George described the declaration as a “total disrespect for constituted authority,” adding that it represented a severe violation of Nigeria’s Constitution.
“This is absolute Armageddon—a complete violation of our legal framework,” George asserted.
He expressed frustration over the lack of clarity surrounding the decision, questioning what Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State had done to merit such an extreme measure.
“What did Fubara do? Tinubu, as Commander-in-Chief, sent soldiers and security forces to destabilize Rivers State. The governor, despite having no control over the security agencies, maintained composure,” George remarked.
“Yet, we are left in the dark about the real reasons behind this emergency rule.”
George drew parallels to past political upheavals in the country, likening the situation to the events of 1962 and 1983, both of which were marked by political unrest and military intervention.
“This is eerily similar to how things unfolded in 1962 and 1983. It seems like a trial run for what Tinubu has in mind for 2027. The APC’s goal is clear—they want to seize control of every state by any unconstitutional means,” he claimed.
The former PDP leader also raised concerns about the legality of Tinubu’s actions, questioning whether he had sought approval from the National Assembly before making his announcement.
“Did he consult with the National Assembly before going on air with this broadcast? The situation in Rivers resembles the biblical ‘hand of Esau and the voice of Jacob,'” George argued, further noting the contradiction in the president’s actions.
“Why was there no state of emergency declared in Lagos when lawmakers were engaged in a violent altercation? And why, just last week, did Tinubu meet with Diete-Spiff and other Niger Delta leaders if he had already decided to implement this emergency rule?”
In a final remark that underscored his concern, George asked, “Is Tinubu on the path to becoming a civilian dictator?”
