Chief Olabode George, a chieftain of the PDP, has accused President Bola Tinubu of undermining Nigeria’s democracy by prioritizing political maneuvering over governance. He expressed concerns about a recent emergency declaration in Rivers State, suggesting it threatens democratic principles and raises alarms over the concentration of power. George urges for a government that genuinely represents citizens, reflecting growing dissatisfaction with the current administration.
Chief Olabode George, a prominent member of the Peoples Democratic Party, has criticized President Bola Tinubu’s administration for prioritizing political theatrics over genuine governance. During a press briefing in Lagos on Monday, George warned that Nigeria is at a crucial point where its democracy is facing a significant threat of sliding into authoritarianism. He noted that citizens increasingly doubt the legitimacy of a government that claims to represent the people.
“Nigeria currently finds itself at a critical juncture, where the actions of the current political administration threaten to erode the very foundations of our hard-won democracy,” George remarked. He emphasized that, after 26 years of civilian rule, many citizens are left questioning the government’s authenticity, which he believes should genuinely serve its populace.
George specifically pointed to the political turmoil in Rivers State, criticizing Tinubu’s emergency declaration made on March 18, 2025. He argued that this led to the unconstitutional suspension of elected officials, including Governor Siminalayi Fubara. “Recent events in Rivers State are indications that the administration of our democracy remains problematic. It is noteworthy that before and even after the emergency declaration, Rivers State witnessed no significant incidents of violence—not even a chicken was killed,” he said.
He also referred to a recent letter from the president to the National Assembly urging the confirmation of appointments for key offices in Rivers State, such as the Independent Electoral Commission. George expressed concern that this insistence reflects a dangerous disregard for democratic values. “The President’s insistence on these appointments reveals a troubling disregard for democratic principles,” he stated, warning of the concentration of power that could undermine accountability.
George declared that the situation poses a significant threat to democracy in Nigeria, suggesting the nation is moving toward self-destruction. “Those in charge have refused to learn lessons from the past. It is disheartening that Nigeria is globally on the radar for all the wrong reasons,” he added, criticizing the Senate’s approval of the emergency rule via voice vote without the constitutionally required two-thirds approval.
He expressed disbelief over the Senate’s handling of the situation, saying, “The law is clear: two-thirds of members—74 senators and 240 representatives—must approve a state of emergency. What is the meaning of a voice vote? Did they get the numbers?” Furthermore, he reminded Tinubu of his previous criticisms concerning emergency declarations, urging him to heed the sentiments of the Nigerian populace.
“Tinubu, if your advisers won’t tell you the truth, Nigerians have spoken with one voice: your despotic tendencies—disguised as emergency measures—cannot stand,” George concluded, indicating a growing frustration among citizens regarding the current administration’s approach to governance.
In summary, Chief Olabode George’s remarks underline his concerns about the Nigerian government’s shift towards authoritarian practices under President Bola Tinubu. With claims that recent actions jeopardize the nation’s democratic integrity, he calls for accountability and a government that truly serves its people. The ongoing political crisis in Rivers State and the controversial emergency declarations raise serious questions about the future direction of Nigeria’s democracy. George’s critique reflects a discontent that resonates with widespread public sentiment.
Original Source: punchng.com
