Attorney General Lateef Fagbemi supports President Tinubu’s suspension of Rivers Governor Fubara, stressing it safeguards Nigeria’s economic interests, particularly in oil production. He cites a Supreme Court ruling against Fubara as justifying the federal intervention, asserting that ignoring the situation would be irresponsible. The AGF addresses concerns about presidential overreach, insisting the actions align with constitutional duties to uphold court rulings.
The Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Lateef Fagbemi, has publicly supported President Bola Tinubu’s suspension of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, asserting that the decision was essential to protect national economic interests. Fagbemi emphasized the vital role of oil production in Rivers State, cautioning that any disruption impacts all Nigerians.
Fagbemi stated, “In today’s Nigeria, for anyone to touch these pipelines, it’s not only the enemy of Rivers, it’s the enemy of Nigeria.” He pointed out that the ongoing crisis in Rivers has remained unaddressed despite various interventions from respected figures, necessitating the President’s decisive action.
He quoted the President asserting that the chronic undermining of the nation’s economic foundation could not be tolerated, stressing that the federal government must respond to such threats. Additionally, Fagbemi referred to a Supreme Court ruling delivered on February 28, 2025, which found Governor Fubara guilty of constitutional violations and characterized his governance as despotic.
Fagbemi remarked, “The Supreme Court… made a categorical pronouncement after making very profound findings of breaches of the Constitution… It came to the conclusion that he was acting like a despot.” He contended that ignoring such serious allegations would be irresponsible for any leader or head of state.
Regarding criticisms of potential presidential overreach, Fagbemi asserted that Tinubu was not implicated in the Supreme Court judgment, and that the President’s actions adhered to constitutional mandates. He affirmed that it is everyone’s duty under the Constitution to respect court judgments. The AGF’s remarks arrive amid considerable criticism of the legality of suspending an elected governor, yet he maintains that the intervention was crucial for restoring order and upholding the rule of law.
In conclusion, Attorney General Lateef Fagbemi has defended President Bola Tinubu’s suspension of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, emphasizing the necessity of maintaining national economic integrity. The AGF highlighted the critical importance of oil production to Nigeria’s economy and referenced the Supreme Court’s ruling regarding the Governor’s constitutional violations. Fagbemi maintains that ensuring compliance with judicial decisions is essential, while also addressing concerns regarding potential overreach by the Presidency. Overall, the suspension is presented as a crucial step in restoring governance and addressing crises in Rivers State.
Original Source: www.arise.tv
