The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has strongly criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over his suspension and subsequent reinstatement of Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, describing the move as unconstitutional and a grave threat to Nigeria’s democracy.

In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, on Thursday, September 18, 2025, the party accused the President of disguising “political brinkmanship as statesmanship.” It warned that Tinubu’s handling of the Rivers State crisis could define his political legacy.

The ADC faulted Tinubu’s six-month suspension of Fubara, his deputy, and members of the State Assembly, before later recalling them. It likened the action to treating elected leaders like political appointees.

“The President’s decision to arrogate himself the power to suspend and recall elected officials in Rivers State is whimsically autocratic and a direct threat to our democracy,” the statement read.

Abdullahi emphasized that only a competent court of law has the constitutional power to suspend or remove elected officials. He recalled Tinubu’s past stance as a federalist during his time as Lagos Governor, questioning his current actions.

The ADC further argued that Tinubu’s intervention served Abuja’s political interests rather than Rivers people, leaving the state with a “pacified government” more loyal to the presidency than its citizens.

It stressed that Section 305 of the Constitution—meant for genuine emergencies—should not be exploited for political scores.