Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma has warned that the interim government proposition by Afe Babalola would create room for anarchy.
The legal luminary and founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti, had called for the suspension of 2023 general elections, while proposing for the emergence of an interim government to superintended over the country by the time President Muhammadu Buhari’s tenure runs out.
He suggested that members of the interim government be drawn from all living former presidents and vice-presidents; some selected ministers and governors and delegates of prominent professional associations, adding that the body should chart a new course for Nigeria for a period of six months before ushering a new government.
However, in a chat with journalists in Abuja on Tuesday, Governor Uzodinma said the country’s constitution did not provide for such an interregnum, warning that such a vacuum would create room for anarchy.
He said: “By May 29, if there is no elected government, our constitution has not provided for an interregnum. There shouldn’t be a gap, otherwise, you are creating room for anarchy.”
While questioning the criteria that would be used to select an interim government, Uzodinma said those expressing such opinions that affect the constitution must go through the national assembly.
“What will be the process of selecting the interim government because, after May 29, the president may not have constitutional powers to function as a president anymore? So, I don’t think we will decide to abandon our constitution.”
“The constitution is like a bible. For some of us who are Christians, the bible is the manager of our faith. So, the constitution should be the instrument guiding our actions as a country.
“If you think there is an opinion that is worthy to be canvassed superior to what is in the Nigerian constitution, such opinion should be taken to the national assembly and they will through due process amend our constitution to factor in such an opinion.”