The Association of Nigerian Professionals in Europe (ANPE) has condemned the recent imposition of a state of emergency in Rivers State, calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reverse the decision and restore democratic governance in the oil-producing state.
ANPE President, Solomon Ola, in a statement made available to journalists, expressed grave concern over the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and other elected members of the State House of Assembly. He described Tinubu’s decision as unconstitutional and damaging to Nigeria’s democratic reputation.
Worried by the development, the group warned that such actions could erode investor confidence and further destabilize the nation’s fragile economy.
ANPE’s leader argued that the imposition of emergency rule signals a dangerous shift toward authoritarianism, undermining the principles of federalism and due process enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution. He noted that Nigeria, once hailed as a beacon of democracy in Africa, is now facing growing criticism.
He said: “The suspension of elected officials without due process is a clear violation of democratic norms. Nigeria’s reputation as a stable investment destination is at stake. This arbitrary abrogation of constitutional procedures erodes trust in Nigeria’s dedication to democratic values, discouraging potential investors.”
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He further stated: “The Nigerian Constitution delineates processes for addressing grievances against elected officials, none of which includes the unilateral imposition of a state of emergency by the federal government.
“By ignoring this legal procedure, the President has not only set a dangerous precedent but also signaled a disregard for the principles of federalism. This authoritarian maneuver has drawn criticism from international observers, damaging Nigeria’s status as an investment destination.
“It is deeply disappointing that our beloved country, once praised as a beacon of democracy in Africa, is now increasingly perceived by the international community as failing in its democratic ideals. Many international bodies and foreign governments have expressed concerns over the erosion of democratic norms in Nigeria.
“This perception has been further exacerbated by President Tinubu’s actions, which paint him as an emergent dictator on the international stage. Such descriptions—whether accurate or exaggerated—have had a chilling effect on Nigeria’s global standing, tarnishing its reputation as a stable and democratic investment destination.”**
He further accused the National Assembly of failing in its duty to check executive overreach and called on lawmakers to investigate the constitutionality of the emergency rule in Rivers State. ANPE also urged the judiciary to uphold the rule of law by ensuring that constitutional procedures are followed in addressing political crises.
“Furthermore, the Association of Nigerian Professionals in Europe (ANPE) is deeply troubled by the response of key stakeholders in this constitutional crisis.
“It is unfortunate that the National Assembly, which is tasked with checking executive excesses and upholding the Constitution, has failed in its duty. Their support for this blatant violation of constitutional norms is a disgrace to Nigerians in the diaspora. We call on the National Assembly to thoroughly reinvestigate this matter and take appropriate action to safeguard Nigeria’s democracy.
“We also call on the judiciary to adjudicate on the constitutionality of the state of emergency and ensure that the rule of law prevails.”
Emphasizing the economic implications of political instability, ANPE’s president warned that foreign investors might withdraw or withhold investments due to uncertainty about Nigeria’s commitment to democratic governance.
“We in the diaspora have worked tirelessly to promote Nigeria as an investment-friendly nation, but this crisis has made our efforts difficult,” the group lamented.
While calling for immediate reconciliation and dialogue, ANPE urged the federal government to respect state autonomy and democratic institutions.
“The strength of our nation lies in our unity and commitment to democracy. President Tinubu must rectify this aberration to safeguard Nigeria’s democratic integrity and economic viability,” he added.
The group reaffirmed its commitment to Nigeria’s development and called on all Nigerians—both at home and abroad—to defend democracy, justice, and the rule of law.
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