Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka has criticized the suspension of elected officials in Rivers State, arguing that the declaration of a state of emergency contradicts the principles of federalism.
Speaking to an international news outlet, Soyinka pointed out that the 1999 constitution grants excessive power to the president, emphasizing the need for a national conversation on constitutional reforms.
“If it is constitutionally right, then I think it is about time we sat down and amended the constitution to make sure that it operates as a genuine federal entity,” he said.
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He further described the government as “over-centralised,” adding, “The debate will go on whether this (state of emergency) was, in the first place, a wise decision, but in terms of fundamental principles, I believe that this is against the federal spirit of association.”
Soyinka reiterated his long-standing stance that Nigeria’s governance system is flawed for a diverse society. “I find that the constitution has put too much power in the hands of the president. The system we are operating right now is not the best for a pluralistic society like ours. That is a fundamental principle I have always held,” he stated.
Calling for a national conference to redefine Nigeria’s constitutional framework, he said, “The federal spirit of association is a cardinal principle and, for that reason, some of us have called again and again for a national conference to really accord ourselves an authentic people’s constitution. Right now, in principle, this action is against the federal imperative.”
