Tinubu Faces Legal Firestorm as SERAP Challenges Rivers State Suspension
Tinubu Faces Legal Firestorm as SERAP Challenges Rivers State Suspension
In a bold move, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has filed a lawsuit against President Bola Tinubu, contesting the suspension of the Rivers State Governor, Deputy Governor, and Members of the Rivers State House of Assembly. The suit, filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja, also names the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, and Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd), the newly appointed Sole Administrator of Rivers State ¹ ².
At the heart of the lawsuit is SERAP's contention that the suspension violates constitutional provisions, undermines democratic principles, and contradicts Nigeria's obligations under international human rights instruments. Specifically, the organization argues that the suspension breaches the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights and the African Charter on Democracy, Elections, and Governance.
The lawsuit seeks an order to overturn the suspension of the elected officials and to nullify the appointment of Vice Admiral Ibas as Sole Administrator. SERAP's Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, emphasized that "the rule of law would become meaningless if the people's right to participate in governance can be arbitrarily suspended or violated" [1).
This legal challenge comes on the heels of President Tinubu's declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, citing political unrest and security concerns. The suspension of the elected officials has sparked widespread controversy, with many questioning the constitutionality of the move.
As the lawsuit makes its way through the courts, all eyes will be on the Federal High Court in Abuja, awaiting a decision that could have far-reaching implications for Nigeria's democratic governance.
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