18/03/2025
Yes, the president can suspend any governor in any state of the federation, subject to approval by the National Assembly that certain conditions were met for the declaration of a state of emergency. The Nigerian constitution gives so many powers to the President that Odumeje and his 5G powers do not even come close.
In 2004, President Olusegun Obasanjo suspended Governor Joshua Dariye of Plateau State after declaring a state of emergency due to violent ethno-religious clashes in Yelwa that led to hundreds of deaths. Under Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, Obasanjo removed Dariye from office, dissolved the Plateau State House of Assembly, and dismissed local government councils, citing a total breakdown of law and order. In his place, he appointed Retired General Chris Alli as the sole administrator to govern the state.
The state of emergency lasted for six months, from May to November 2004, after which Obasanjo lifted the emergency rule. Joshua Dariye was reinstated as governor once the situation stabilised, making this one of the rare instances in Nigeria where a sitting governor was formally suspended under emergency powers.
I am afraid this current administration is giving military vibes, given that Obasanjo was still fresh from military rule back in the day.
For those saying, let's see what the National Assembly will do. Are you thinking they will veto the president? Senate is dealing with sexual scandal, and for House of Reps, they gave the president a big cheque a few days ago for charity.
Even before this matter gets to them, they have already stood on the mandate and approved it.
Martin Beck Nworah