Rivers State: No to Self-imposed Political Emperors – Otunba Babatunde Olushola Senbanjo

By Otunba Babatunde Olushola Senbanjo (BOS)

The recent reinstatement of Governor Siminalayi Fubara in Rivers State may appear as a victory on the surface. Still, in reality, it exposes the painful truth about the state of our democracy. A sitting Governor, who constitutionally represents the will of the people of Rivers State, has now been reduced to a subordinate, constantly subdued and confined within the boundaries drawn by external authority. This is not only an affront to his office, but a dangerous precedent that undermines the very essence of democracy in Nigeria.

It is no longer news that the overbearing influence of the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, looms large over Rivers State. Wike, with his arrogance, dictatorial tendencies, and a disturbing sense of invincibility, continues to act as though he is above the law of the land. His behaviour reflects not statesmanship, but militancy in a democratic garb. His insistence on holding Rivers State hostage to his personal whims and political ego is a stain on our democratic system and an insult to the collective intelligence of the Nigerian people.

Democracy was never designed to serve the interests of one man’s ambition. Democracy is about people, institutions, and the rule of law not about godfathers pulling the strings while elected leaders are treated like ‘puppets.’ If we continue down this path, what we will have is not democracy but a modern form of militia dictatorship, where power is concentrated in the hands of a few who believe they can decide the destiny of millions.

The people of Rivers State did not re-elect Nyesom Wike to govern them; they elected Siminalayi Fubara. Therefore, any arrangement or political compromise that reduces the Governor to a mere figurehead while Wike dictates from behind the scenes is an assault on the mandate of the Rivers people. Enough is enough. Nigerians must rise and say no to this destructive culture of political overlords.

If we are truly practising democracy in this nation, then we must put an end to this shameful display of impunity. Our institutions must be strengthened to protect elected leaders from the stranglehold of self-imposed political emperors. Wike must be reminded that no man is above the law, and that democracy cannot thrive under the shadows of arrogance, intimidation, and dictatorial control.

Nigeria deserves better. Rivers State deserves better. And if we are to safeguard the future of our democracy, we must reject this creeping culture of political militancy parading itself as leadership. Enough of this militia dictatorship in our beloved country.