Statements from Canonists to that effect are all rooted in the normal law of the Church, which applies during normal conditions.
Had canon law been around when St Athanasius was alive, people would have told him to stay in his Arian diocese, "pray to God and wait for His help". And Arianism would've conquered the Church.
Canon 2365 (1917) - A presbyter who does not have, either by law or by concession of the Roman Pontiff, faculty to administer the sacrament of confirmation but who dares to administer it is suspended; but if he presumes to exceed the limited faculties made for him, he is considered by that fact to be deprived of that faculty.
If a priest confirms without permission, he's suspended. But this canon doesn't deny he has the faculty (i.e. inherent power) to do so, nor does it say such are invalid.
But Trad bishops/priests can set up seminaries, consecrate other bishops, ordain priests, set up schools, etc (all of which are excommunicable offenses and none of which are allowed by canon law) and the response is..."Oh, no problem. It was necessary; God understands."
But a priest decides to confirm because 1,000s of catholics each year (or over a period of multiple years) can't get confirmation and the response is, "
Oh my gracious! This is such a SCANDAL. Horrible, no good priest!"
The contradiction is amazing.