The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has cautioned the federal government against allowing political tensions to escalate in Kano while condemning the recent suspension of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and members of the State House of Assembly by President Bola Tinubu.
In a statement issued by its spokesperson, Professor Abubakar Jika Jiddere, the Forum expressed deep concern over the political crisis in Rivers State, arguing that the situation did not meet the constitutional requirements for a state of emergency as outlined in Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
Jiddere emphasized that none of the conditions—such as war, imminent invasion, a breakdown of public order, or a clear and present danger—had occurred to justify such drastic measures.
The NEF accused the federal government of acting based on personal and political interests rather than in the interest of democracy and public order.
The group urged Tinubu to immediately lift the suspension of the governor, deputy governor, and state assembly members to restore democratic governance in Rivers State.
Additionally, the Forum expressed concern over ongoing political disputes in Kano, particularly the tensions surrounding the traditional institution of the Kano Emirate. NEF warned that unresolved conflicts in the state could lead to greater instability if not properly handled.
The group called on the federal government to adopt fair and lasting solutions to prevent further political crises in the country.
