A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dele Momodu, has condemned President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, calling it “anti-democratic.”
The decision, which has sparked widespread criticism, included the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and the Rivers State House of Assembly for six months due to the ongoing political crisis in the oil-rich state.
Speaking on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief, Momodu joined a growing list of critics opposing the president’s move.
“I think it is very unfortunate. I know President Tinubu very well. Though we have never been in the same party, we were together in exile, and he fought gallantly for democracy. Many of us who were his comrades at the time are now deeply embarrassed that a pro-democracy leader is presiding over actions worse than a dictatorship,” he said on Monday.
He urged the president to reconsider his stance, warning against actions that could erode democratic principles.
“I’m pleading with President Bola Tinubu: Please don’t kill democracy in Nigeria. Everyone who truly cares about him should tell him this. I have never asked him for anything, but we respect his past contributions to democracy, and it is heartbreaking to see it unravel.”
Momodu further accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of using intimidation tactics against the opposition, cautioning Tinubu to be wary of those advising him.
“I am saying it openly to millions of Nigerians: people are deceiving President Tinubu, and he must not allow himself to be misled,” he stated.
“He should focus on doing his job. The only thing that can guarantee a second term is good governance—you don’t need to intimidate anybody.”
