Democracy Day Discontent: Dickson Slams Tinubu’s Silence on Rivers State Crisis.By Ovieomeleh

Democracy Day Discontent: Dickson Slams Tinubu’s Silence on Rivers State Crisis.

By: Ovieomeleh 

As Nigerians marked Democracy Day on Thursday, Senator Seriake Dickson, former Governor of Bayelsa State, voiced strong criticism of President Bola Tinubu’s administration for its silence on the ongoing political unrest in Rivers State.

Speaking at a press conference shortly after the President’s national address, Dickson described Tinubu’s failure to address the crisis as a missed opportunity to reaffirm democratic values. He warned that the situation in Rivers represents a “dangerous erosion of constitutional rule,” raising alarm over what he sees as federal complacency in the face of clear democratic violations.

“Democracy embodies hope for a brighter future,” said Dickson, who represents Bayelsa West in the Senate. “Yet today, many Nigerians are disheartened. The events that unfolded in the Senate this morning only amplified that sense of despair.”

The senator recounted how he attempted to raise a constitutional point of order during Thursday’s Senate session, following President Tinubu’s announcement of new appointments in Rivers State. He accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of stifling dissent by refusing to acknowledge his point of order.

“This is not just about my rights as a senator,” Dickson stated. “It’s about protecting the integrity of our democratic institutions.”

Dickson’s comments add to growing concerns over the federal government’s handling of the political crisis in Rivers, which has sparked tensions within the state’s legislative and executive branches.

As Nigeria looks ahead to a critical period in its democratic journey, Dickson urged citizens to remain vigilant and active in defending democratic norms.

“Democracy is not a gift we can take for granted,” he concluded. “We must continue to demand accountability and constitutional governance.”