Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, has urged the party’s lawmakers to resist any move that undermines democracy in the wake of President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of emergency rule in Rivers State.
In a statement posted on X on Thursday, March 20, Obi said he had refrained from interfering in their legislative duties but found it necessary to speak out at this “critical juncture.”
He cautioned the legislators against supporting any decision that compromises democratic principles, stressing that Nigeria’s democratic process has suffered years of decline due to electoral fraud and unconstitutional actions.
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“However, at this critical juncture — following 26 years of a deteriorating democratic process marked by disregard for educational qualifications for electoral positions, massive rigging, and now the unconstitutional removal of elected officeholders — I find it necessary to address you.
“These unconstitutional actions have far-reaching negative implications for our democracy and the will of the people.”
Obi warned lawmakers against becoming tools of injustice, stating, “Do not participate in or support any action, decision, or vote that compromises the integrity of our democracy, undermines the interests of the people of Rivers State, or contradicts our core values of fairness, equity, and transparency.”
He called on them to stand firm for justice and prioritise the well-being of the people over political convenience, adding, “Together, let us stand firm in our resolve — because a new Nigeria is possible!”
The House of Representatives has approved President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, endorsing the move through a voice vote during Thursday, March 20, plenary session.
Speaker Tajudeen Abbas confirmed that 243 lawmakers attended the session, surpassing the required quorum.
It is unknown, how many members of the Labour Party were present during the plenary session to endorse the emergency declaration.