The Nigerians in Diaspora Association (NDA-USA) has strongly opposed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, calling it an attack on democracy and a move that undermines Nigeria’s global reputation.
In a statement signed by its President, Comrade Martins Tayo, and Dr. Benson Obinna, the association rejected the emergency rule, which led to the suspension of the governor, his deputy, and all elected State Assembly members, replacing them with a sole administrator for six months.
The group criticized the decision as a violation of democratic principles and warned that it could set a dangerous precedent.
They argued that rather than imposing emergency rule, the federal government should have relied on existing laws and constitutional measures to address any crisis in the state.
Expressing concerns over the implications of the move, the association accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of using the emergency rule to consolidate power and weaken democratic institutions in Rivers State.
They cited historical examples where emergency declarations had been used as a tool for authoritarian control, cautioning that Nigeria must not follow a similar path.
The NDA-USA demanded an immediate reversal of the decision, reinstatement of the governor and his deputy, and restoration of the State House of Assembly.
They also called for the sole administrator to step down and hand power back to the democratically elected officials.
Furthermore, the association announced plans to stage protests in major U.S. cities to pressure the Nigerian government into reversing the decision. They reaffirmed their commitment to defending democracy and ensuring that Nigeria does not slip into autocratic governance.
“The declaration of a state of emergency is not a viable solution, as it opens the door for abuse of power and undermines democratic values,” the statement read. “A better approach would have been the use of constitutional measures or, in extreme cases, the doctrine of necessity. This would have demonstrated a commitment to democratic governance rather than militarizing politics.”
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