Ahead of the November 6 gubernatorial election in Anambra state, the Federal Government has said it may declare a state of emergency in the state to ensure the election takes place.
Attorney of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, made this known on Wednesday, October 6, 2021, after the Federal Executive Council meeting at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
He said no possibility will be ruled out inclusive of a declaration of a state of emergency in the determination to ensure a hitch-free exercise.
According to him, “When our national security is att*cked, and the sanctity of our constitutionally guaranteed democracy is thr*atened, no possibility is ruled out.
As a government, we have a responsibility to ensure the sustenance of our democratic order. And to provide security to life and properties.
So, within the context of these constitutional obligations, of the government or the desire to establish democratic norms and order, there is no possibility that is out ruled.
So, what I’m saying in essence, no possibility is out ruled by government in terms of ensuring the sanctity of our democratic order, in terms of ensuring that our elections in Anambra hold.
And you cannot rule out the possibility of a declaration of state of emergency where it is established, in essence, that there is a failure on the part of the state government to ensure the sanctity of security of lives, properties and democratic order.”
