FG Speaks On Declaring State Of Emergency In Anambra

The Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, says drastic action may be taken if the continued killings and violence in Anambra State does not stop.

Malami disclosed that the Federal Government may declare a state of emergency in the South-East state to ensure that the forthcoming governorship election holds.

The minister said the government has resolved that the November 6 election will take place, adding that the government is determined to ensure a hitch-free election in Anambra.

Briefing newsmen on Wednesday after the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, Malami noted that the security of lives and properties of Nigerians living in Anambra is paramount to the government.

The minister stated that a state of emergency may be declared in the state if national security is attacked, and the sanctity of the constitutionally guaranteed democracy is threatened.

He said: “When our national security is attacked, and the sanctity of our constitutionally guaranteed democracy is threatened, no possibility is ruled out.

“As a government, we have a responsibility to ensure the sustenance of our democratic order. As a government, we have a responsibility 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 a 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.”