The political landscape of Nigeria has been marred by the contentious removal of governors, a phenomenon that has evolved drastically from the era of former President Olusegun Obasanjo (1999–2007) to the recent suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (2025). While the methods, constitutional backing, and political implications behind these actions differ significantly, both underscore a worrying trend towards the erosion of democratic principles in Nigeria.
Constitutional Process vs. Executive Fiat
During Obasanjo’s administration, the removal of governors was often shrouded in controversy, marked by allegations of political pressure and the manipulation of state assemblies. The impeachments of Joshua Dariye and Diepreye Alamieyeseigha were executed through technically legal yet fundamentally flawed processes that raised ethical questions. The Supreme Court’s intervention in Rasheed Ladoja’s case, where the court declared his removal unconstitutional, highlighted the need for due process in impeachments.
In stark contrast, Tinubu’s suspension of Governor Fubara showcases a blatant disregard for constitutional protocols. By declaring a state of emergency and appointing a military-retired sole administrator, Tinubu’s actions reflect an executive overreach that lacks any legal foundation. This method not only undermines the democratic process but also raises alarms about the potential usurpation of power by the executive branch.
Role of State Assemblies vs. Presidential Decree
Obasanjo’s approach relied heavily on state houses of assembly, often manipulated through coercive tactics. While some governors managed to challenge their removals in court, the involvement of state assemblies, even if flawed, offered a veneer of legislative oversight. However, Tinubu’s unilateral decision to bypass the Rivers State Assembly altogether relegates elected representatives to mere spectators in the governance process. This shift towards executive dominance diminishes the role of democratic institutions and sets a concerning precedent for future governance.
Legal Challenges and Precedents
The legal battles surrounding Obasanjo’s impeachments established vital precedents reinforcing the necessity of due process in governance. The Supreme Court’s ruling in Ladoja v. Oyo State Assembly served as a beacon of hope for democratic integrity. Conversely, Tinubu’s unprecedented action raises critical questions about the legality of a president suspending an elected governor. Should this action be upheld by the courts, it could pave the way for an alarming anti-democratic shift, eroding the very foundations of Nigeria’s democratic framework.
Political Context: One Party Control vs. Federal Overreach
Obasanjo’s tenure was characterized by a political environment dominated by the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), where party loyalty often ensured compliance among state governors. Tinubu’s recent actions, however, signal a disturbing trend towards central authoritarian control. The implications of this shift suggest that Nigeria may be veering towards a one-party state or outright autocracy, a trajectory that threatens the democratic aspirations of its citizens.
The differences in the methods employed by Obasanjo and Tinubu highlight a troubling trajectory in Nigeria’s governance. The erosion of democratic norms, the undermining of constitutional processes, and the implications of political centralization pose significant threats to the future of Nigeria. As citizens, it is imperative to remain vigilant and advocate for the preservation of democratic values. The actions of today’s leaders must be scrutinized, for they will shape the political landscape of tomorrow.
Bukar Mohammed writes from Kano
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