Makinde Criticizes Tinubu’s Actions in Rivers State, Affirms Support for Fubara

Abeokuta, Nigeria – Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has publicly challenged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, denouncing it as an “illegality.” Makinde voiced his strong support for Governor Fubara, emphasizing the need to protect Nigeria’s democratic principles.

In a statement released on Thursday, Governor Makinde asserted, “The declaration of the State of Emergency in Rivers State and the suspension of the executive and legislative arms of government by the presidency is an illegality that right-thinking members of society must oppose.” He urged Nigerians to stand up for fairness, equity, and justice as the nation’s democracy evolves.

Makinde highlighted the importance of speaking out against actions that threaten national development, stating, “We must choose to stand up for what is right, even if it means standing alone.”

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The governor’s remarks echo similar sentiments expressed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum and former Bayelsa Governor Seriake Dickson, who have also condemned President Tinubu’s actions. Makinde lauded the PDP’s firm stance against what he views as an undemocratic move.

“Yesterday, the PDP Governors’ Forum rose from an emergency meeting where we unanimously decided to challenge the actions of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in a court of competent jurisdiction,” Makinde stated. “We cannot fold our hands and watch the democracy we built for almost three decades be trampled upon.”

Makinde stressed the need to safeguard the peace and stability that have fostered economic growth, referencing his administration’s efforts to address security challenges in Oyo State. He affirmed that Nigeria’s democratic values must remain uncompromised, regardless of personal loyalties, emphasizing the importance of protecting the progress achieved through democratic governance.