Don’t Kill Democracy, Dele Momodu Cautions Tinubu

Veteran journalist and politician, Dele Momodu, has accused President Bola Tinubu’s administration of selectively interfering in state affairs, warning that its actions in Rivers State could weaken Nigeria’s democracy.

Speaking on The Morning Brief on Channels Television on March 31, 2025, Momodu questioned why the government chose to impose a state of emergency in Rivers State while ignoring similar crises in other parts of the country.

Momodu argued that the government’s approach suggested bias, which could fuel political instability and erode public trust in democratic institutions.

He described the decision to suspend the Rivers State governor and dissolve the state House of Assembly as an unjustifiable overreach of executive power.

“Why Rivers? Why not other states where political violence has been recorded? This sends the wrong message about fairness in governance,” he said.

According to Momodu, if the federal government genuinely seeks to maintain peace, it should apply the same standard across all states facing political conflicts.

Ovation Magazine Publisher said democratic governance thrives on consistency and respect for due process.

He called on President Bola Tinubu to ensure that interventions in state matters are based on legal and constitutional frameworks rather than political calculations.

He warned that a precedent of selective intervention could embolden future administrations to misuse federal power for partisan interests.

Momodu also urged Nigerians to be vigilant and resist any actions that threaten democratic institutions.

He emphasized that political stability can only be achieved when all leaders, regardless of party affiliation, are treated equally under the law.

“If we allow this now, tomorrow it could happen anywhere, to anyone. Democracy must be protected at all costs,” he said.