By Kelvin Uwaibi
Subject: An Earnest Appeal for the Reconsideration of the Suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Reinforcement of Democratic Principles
Your Excellency,
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,
President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,
Aso Rock Villa, Abuja.
March 20, 2025
Dear Mr. President,
I write to you today as a devoted and patriotic citizen of this great nation, Nigeria. I deeply appreciate the remarkable commitment you have demonstrated in your efforts to secure the peace, unity, and progress of our country, especially in the face of pressing security challenges that threaten the lives and livelihoods of our people. Your courage to take decisive actions when required speaks to your dedication to preserving the very fabric of our society.
It is from this place of deep respect for your leadership and a shared desire for a stronger Nigeria that I humbly present this heartfelt plea. The recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State and the suspension of its elected Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and the State House of Assembly members have caused great concern.
While I fully recognize the gravity of the circumstances that led to this decision, it is crucial to reflect on how we can resolve this issue without compromising the principles that define our democracy.
The 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) stands as the guiding framework through which we ensure justice, equity, and respect for the people’s will.
It enshrines a process for the removal of a state governor through Section 188, which exclusively empowers the State House of Assembly to initiate impeachment proceedings. This is not merely a legal technicality; it is a fundamental safeguard that ensures accountability and protects the legitimacy of our federal structure.
Furthermore, Section 11(4) clearly emphasizes that the removal of a Governor or Deputy Governor is not within the purview of the National Assembly or any federal authority. This critical provision safeguards the autonomy of the states, an essential aspect of our federal democracy.
Your Excellency, the decision to suspend Governor Siminalayi Fubara has implications that go beyond Rivers State. It touches the core of our democracy and raises questions about the security of the people’s mandate across all states of the federation. What affects one state affects the entire nation because our destinies are interwoven.
As a father cares for all his children, I trust that your concern for every state transcends party affiliations and personal differences. Your reputation as a leader who upholds the rule of law, respects democratic principles, and fosters inclusiveness is well known.
It is on this basis that I humbly plead with you to reconsider this decision and to act in a manner that reflects your dedication to fairness, justice, and the enduring stability of Nigeria.
I appeal to your conscience and wisdom to consider a pathway that allows for meaningful collaboration between the Federal Government and the Government of Rivers State, even in these trying times.
Allowing Governor Siminalayi Fubara to continue serving in his constitutional role, while working hand-in-hand with the Federal Government to restore peace and order, would send a powerful message of unity, reconciliation, and respect for the will of the people.
Furthermore, I respectfully call upon the Governors of all 36 states of the federation to show interest in this matter. This is not merely about Governor Fubara or Rivers State. It is about safeguarding the democratic structures we all cherish, ensuring that power is exercised within the boundaries of the law, and preserving the dignity of the Nigerian people’s mandate.
I am not appealing to you as an adversary but as a fellow Nigerian who yearns for our country to continue moving forward on the path of justice, peace, and genuine unity. Your Excellency, your decision in this matter will echo through history, not just as an exercise of power but as a testament to your commitment to the principles of democracy and the prosperity of our nation.
May Almighty God grant you the wisdom, courage, and compassion to make the right decision. May your leadership continue to inspire hope, justice, and unwavering faith in the unity of this great nation.
Thank you for considering this humble appeal.
Kindly be assured of my esteemed regards.
Kelvin Uwaibi
Concerned Citizen.
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