Democracy Under Siege: CUPP Slams Tinubu For Eroding Democratic Institutions

In a statement on Monday in Abuja, CUPP National Secretary, Chief Peter Ameh, condemned the President’s imposition of a state of emergency and the appointment of a retired military officer as sole administrator in the state, warning that such actions pose a serious threat to the rule of law and the country’s constitutional democracy.

Ameh noted that President Tinubu had previously earned widespread admiration for his legal challenge against Nigeria’s 36 governors over financial autonomy for local government councils, which led to a landmark Supreme Court ruling that supported grassroots independence.

“This decision was hailed as a victory for strengthening grassroots governance and reinforcing the constitutional mandate for elected local leadership,” Ameh stated.

However, Ameh expressed regret that these earlier accomplishments were now being overshadowed by actions he believes contradict the very principles Tinubu once appeared to champion.

“The triumph has been overshadowed by actions that seem to contradict the principles Tinubu claimed to fight for, particularly in Rivers State, where his government’s approach has sparked widespread concern,” he said.

Ameh further accused the President’s government of dismantling democratic institutions in the state through unlawful means.

“In a disturbing development, Tinubu’s administration can be seen eroding democratic institutions in Rivers State through undemocratic measures,” he remarked.

Ameh specifically criticized the dismissal of the chairman and members of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC), who were replaced by a sole administrator, calling the move unconstitutional and a violation of judicial rulings.

“The removal of the chairman and members of RSIEC and their replacement with a sole administrator is unlawful and a direct challenge to the Supreme Court’s ruling,” Ameh added.

He continued, “I am among those who argue that this action not only undermines the judiciary but also disregards the Constitution, which Tinubu swore to uphold.”

The CUPP secretary also criticized the reported use of military force to remove elected officials, linking it to a broader pattern of executive overreach and a disregard for constitutional democracy.