Why Tinubu Should Not Interfere In Ondo, Rivers Crisis – Fashola

The former Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola (SAN), has expressed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has no business with the political crisis in Ondo and Rivers states.

He disclosed that although there have been various calls to amend the constitution, it is crucial for Nigerians to modify their behavior.

Fashola emphasised that the constitution explicitly outlines the appropriate actions to be taken when faced with circumstances like those occurring in both states, as well as the responsibilities of the individuals involved.

While speaking over the weekend at the Nigerian Air Force Officers Mess Honorary Members Forum (HMF) 2023 Annual Lecture in Lagos on the topic: “Leadership – Leading the Change.”, he said, “We have amended the constitution, so what is left to amend, except ourselves? Is this a matter that required presidential intervention when some people were calling for the president to intervene. Does the constitution assign a role to the president in this matter?

“Are those inviting the president to act in Ondo and in Rivers state not aware that the president has no constitutional role in these matters?

“Are they not also those who argue that the federal government and by extension the president are too powerful and encroaching the powers of state governments? Is this a case of passing the buck when tough leadership calls are requested to be made?

“Happily, in our Ondo case, some blue blood Ondo indigenes have stood up to be counted (but they are in an obvious minority), even in the pursuit of law and constitutionality before the governor’s letter restored calm and we want for leadership in Rivers state to do the needful.”