Wole Soyinka: ‘State of emergency in Rivers State betrays federalism’

Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka says President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers state betrays the spirit of federalism.

Tinubu declared emergency rule in the oil-rich state on Tuesday over the political crisis and instability in the state.

He also suspended Siminalayi Fubara, governor of the state; his deputy, Ngozi Odu; and all members of the Rivers assembly for an initial period of six months.

The president immediately appointed Ibok-Ete Ibas, a retired naval chief, as the state’s sole administrator.

Soyinka said the Nigerian constitution gives the president too much powers.

Commenting on the legality of the declaration, Soyinka said there is a need to amend some sections of the constitution.

He also said it is debatable if the move was a wise one.

“If it is constitutionally right, then I think it is about time we sat down and amended the constitution to make sure that it operates as a genuine federal entity,” Soyinka said.

“The government is over-centralised. The debate will go on whether this (state of emergency) was, in the first place, a wise decision but in terms of fundamental principles, I believe that this is against the federal spirit of association.

“I find that the constitution has put too much power in the hands of the president. The system we are operating right now is not the best for a pluralistic society like ours. That is a fundamental principle I have always held.”

The playwright further reiterated his call for a national conference which he said would provide an opportunity to “really accord ourselves an authentic people’s constitution”.

“The federal spirit of association is a cardinal principle… right now, in principle, this action is against the federal imperative,” he said.