Senator representing Bayelsa West, Seriake Dickson on Thursday condemned President Bola Tinubu’s silence on the political turmoil in Rivers State.
According to him, the lack of words or actions by the President, could be seen as a dangerous affront to democracy.
He shared his thoughts while speaking to journalists shortly after a joint session of the National Assembly convened to mark Democracy Day.
Dickson did not mince words in his criticism of both the Senate’s conduct and the President’s perceived inaction.
“Let me start by saying Happy Democracy Day to all Nigerians, even though one might ask, are we truly happy?” Dickson said.
“Democracy is supposed to inspire hope, but what we saw today in the Senate was a direct assault on that hope.”
At the core of his concern was a communication from President Tinubu regarding the political situation in Rivers State.
The message was read aloud during plenary by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, a move Dickson found highly symbolic and troubling.
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“It’s deeply ironic that on a day meant to celebrate the triumph of civil authority, the Senate is endorsing actions that undermine the Constitution,” Dickson noted. “Why read this communication today, of all days, if not to send a chilling message about federal overreach?”
The senator went further, accusing the presidency of hypocrisy in its approach to governance.
“You cannot preach democracy and practice autocracy,” he stated.
“President Tinubu’s speech was beautifully written, but his silence on Rivers betrays a troubling disregard for the rule of law.”
He emphasized that the issue transcended party politics or personal loyalties.
“This is not about Governor Fubara. It is not about political parties. It is about the people of Rivers State and the survival of democracy in Nigeria,” he asserted. “If Rivers can be treated this way today, what stops it from being Lagos or Kano tomorrow?”
Drawing a parallel between the Rivers crisis and the controversial 2023 elections in Lagos, Dickson suggested a broader pattern of democratic erosion.
“What we saw in Lagos during the elections was a blatant power grab. What’s happening in Rivers now is the continuation of that trend,” he warned. “We are sliding into a dangerous place where federal might is used to subvert local democracy.”
He concluded with a solemn reminder of the historical significance of June 12 and its ongoing relevance.
“This is not just about one state or one governor. This is about our collective future,” he declared. “The struggle of June 12 wasn’t just about voting — it was about dignity, justice, and the voice of the people. We must not betray that legacy.”
The Senate approved the president’s request for emergency Rule in Rivers State through a voice vote, bypassing the constitutionally mandated two-thirds majority required for such a significant decision.
In a statement, Dickson explained that he had raised his objections during a closed session, arguing that the declaration fell short of constitutional requirements.
He expressed gratitude to Senator Tambuwal for his strong support in challenging the legality of the declaration, particularly the aspect involving the suspension of elected officials in Rivers State.
The decision of Tinubu to suspend Fubara has been met with condemnations across different quarters.
