HURIWA Faults Fubara’s Remarks, Warns Against Undermining Democracy
The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has criticised Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara over his recent comments suggesting indifference to returning to office, warning that such remarks could fuel anti-democratic tendencies.
In a statement issued by its National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA said Nigeria’s democracy is founded on constitutional authority and electoral legitimacy.
The group cautioned that Fubara’s statement—made during a service of songs for elder statesman Edwin Clark—might be wrongly interpreted as endorsing unconstitutional removal from office.
HURIWA condemned the suspension of a sitting governor without due process, describing it as a “coup against the Nigerian Constitution.”
It insisted that only a resignation, impeachment, or court ruling, as prescribed in Sections 180 and 188 of the Constitution, can lawfully remove a governor.
Referring to Section 11(4), the organisation noted that even in cases of a breakdown of law and order, the National Assembly lacks the power to sack a governor.
Only a state of emergency declared under Section 305 can alter governance structures temporarily—and that does not include appointing a sole administrator.
“Fubara’s mandate belongs to the people of Rivers State,” HURIWA stated. “No governor can be removed by executive fiat.”
The group warned that setting such a precedent could push Nigeria toward authoritarianism and urged the judiciary, National Assembly, and all democratic stakeholders to resist what it described as creeping tyranny.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
