In a bold move, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has filed a lawsuit against President Bola Tinubu, challenging the suspension of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and members of the State House of Assembly .
The suspension, which was announced by President Tinubu last Tuesday, cited escalating violence in the state, including explosions and vandalism of petroleum pipelines. However, SERAP argues that the suspension is “unlawful” and undermines democratic governance .
According to Kolawole Oluwadare, SERAP’s Deputy Director, “The rule of law would be rendered meaningless if the people’s right to participate in governance can be arbitrarily suspended or violated.” He emphasized that democracy is a fundamental aspect of the rule of law, and Nigeria’s democracy should be built on respect for human rights and the rule of law .
Key Points of the Lawsuit
- SERAP is seeking an order setting aside the suspension of the democratically elected officials in Rivers State.
- The group is also seeking an order setting aside the appointment of Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd) as the Sole Administrator of Rivers State.
- SERAP argues that the suspension violates constitutional provisions and international legal obligations, including the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the African Charter on Democracy, Elections, and Governance .
The lawsuit is a significant development in the ongoing crisis in Rivers State, and its outcome could have far-reaching implications for democratic governance in Nigeria. As the case unfolds, Nigerians will be watching closely to see how the court rules on this critical issue.
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