The Democracy Watch Network (DWN) has criticized Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, for using thugs to forcibly remove 23 local government chairmen from office after their tenure expired.
The group condemned this action as a blatant attack on democracy, resulting in tragic loss of lives and a complete breakdown of law and order in the state.
Following Fubara’s address, some youths loyal to the governor stormed local government headquarters on Tuesday, evicting elected officials and destroying government properties.
In a statement signed by Mr. Godfrey Titus, DWN described Fubara’s behavior as unacceptable and a dangerous precedent for undermining democratic norms in Nigeria. The group claimed this incident reflects Fubara’s violent tendencies and disregard for democratic principles.
The Democracy Watch Network urged President Bola Tinubu and relevant authorities to take swift action to restore peace and order in Rivers State until the court rules on the matter.
“DWN vehemently condemns Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s use of thugs to forcibly remove Local Government Chairmen from office mere hours after their tenure expired. This brazen assault on democracy has resulted in the tragic loss of two lives and a complete breakdown of law and order in the state. Governor Fubara’s actions are a gross violation of the rule of law and a blatant disregard for the democratic process.
“The case for tenure elongation for the chairmen is still pending in court, yet the governor chose to take the law into his own hands, employing thugs to intimidate and harass elected officials. This behavior is unacceptable and sets a dangerous precedent for the erosion of democratic norms in Nigeria. Governor Fubara has a history of violence and tends to go to any length to prove a point to his perceived political opponents. This latest incident is a stark reminder of his disregard for human life and democratic principles.
“DWN calls on Governor Fubara to immediately reverse his decision, respect the legal process, and allow the chairmen to remain in office until the court reaches a decision. We urge the Nigerian government and relevant authorities to take swift action to address this situation, ensure the restoration of peace and order in Rivers State, and hold Governor Fubara accountable for his anti-democratic actions.
“DWN stands in solidarity with the people of Rivers State and the affected Local Government Chairmen. We will continue to monitor the situation closely, advocating for the upholding of democracy and the rule of law in Nigeria,” the statement said.
