Backlash As National Assembly Approves State Of Emergency In Rivers State.
The National Assembly has come under heavy criticism following its approval of President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State. The decision, which also led to the appointment of Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd) as the Sole Administrator, has sparked widespread discontent among political stakeholders and the public.
Despite opposition calls to reject the proposal, both chambers of the National Assembly endorsed the emergency rule through a voice vote, a move that many critics argue undermines democratic principles. While the Senate introduced a clause allowing a joint ad hoc committee to oversee the state’s administration, it did not conduct a roll-call vote, further raising concerns about transparency.
Political Reactions and Concerns
The decision has been met with fierce opposition from various quarters. Former Aviation Minister Osita Chidoka criticised the move, urging the federal government to continue mediating between political actors rather than imposing emergency powers. He stressed that strengthening security agencies would be a more effective approach to maintaining order.
Similarly, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, condemned the use of a voice vote for such a critical decision. He argued that bypassing proper legislative procedures erodes public trust in democracy. “The 1999 Constitution requires a two-thirds majority for such a proclamation, which cannot be determined by a mere call of ‘Aye’ or ‘Nay’,” Obi stated.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) also voiced its disapproval, with its National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, warning that the move could set a dangerous precedent for overriding elected state governments. He argued that rather than declaring emergency rule, the federal government could have deployed security forces to maintain peace in the state.
Governor Fubara Responds
Suspended Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has denied allegations that he failed to address security threats in the state. In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, Fubara clarified that he had taken measures to prevent attacks on oil installations and that the state’s demolished House of Assembly complex was already 80% rebuilt.
He attributed the political crisis in Rivers to a controversial remark by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, which had sparked tensions among ethnic groups in the state. According to Fubara, his administration remained committed to maintaining peace despite provocations from Wike’s supporters.
Legislative Debate and Amendments
During deliberations in the House of Representatives, some lawmakers attempted to introduce amendments to ensure that legislative powers during the emergency would rest with the National Assembly rather than the Federal Executive Council. Labour Party lawmaker Etanabene Benedict argued that Section 11(4) of the Constitution should be considered alongside Section 305, reinforcing the National Assembly’s role in making laws for the state during an emergency.
Deputy House Spokesman Philip Agbese proposed the establishment of a National Peace Committee to mediate between warring factions in Rivers State. The House also agreed to periodically review the emergency rule rather than implementing a fixed six-month duration, as initially proposed by the President.
Public Outcry Over Legislative Process
The use of a voice vote to approve the emergency rule has been a major point of contention. Former Ogun Central Senator Femi Okurounmu described it as a violation of representative democracy, arguing that constituents deserved to know how their lawmakers voted. “The lawmakers either acted under coercion or inducement, as there is no justification for handling such a serious matter with a voice vote,” he said.
As criticisms mount, political analysts warn that the decision could deepen Nigeria’s democratic challenges, particularly concerning the balance of power between the executive and legislative branches. Many now await further developments as the emergency rule takes effect in Rivers State.
