Senate Approves Controversial Emergency Rule in Rivers, Calls for Mediation
ABUJA— In a controversial move, the Nigerian Senate has approved President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, invoking constitutional powers under the amended 1999 Constitution. The decision, mirroring an earlier endorsement by the House of Representatives, has sparked widespread criticism from political leaders, legal experts, and civil society groups.
The Senate’s approval grants Tinubu sweeping powers to enforce emergency measures, with a mandated review within six months. However, the move raises concerns about the erosion of democratic governance in Rivers, especially following the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and the entire State House of Assembly.
Additionally, the National Assembly has established a joint oversight committee to supervise the administration of Rivers State during this emergency period. In an attempt to mitigate tensions, the Senate also resolved to set up a mediation committee comprising eminent Nigerians to address the deepening political crisis.
Legislative Justification or Power Grab?
The House of Representatives had earlier voted in favor of the emergency declaration, with 240 lawmakers present during the plenary session presided over by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas. While supporters of the move argue that it is necessary to restore order in the oil-rich state, critics see it as an alarming overreach by the Federal Government.
Legal analysts have pointed out that while the National Assembly is constitutionally empowered to legislate for a state whose assembly is incapacitated, the emergency rule effectively sidelines an elected government, raising serious constitutional and democratic concerns.
Public Outcry and Calls for Reversal
The proclamation has ignited a wave of condemnation from prominent Nigerians, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party’s presidential candidate Peter Obi. Many argue that the move undermines Nigeria’s federal structure and sets a dangerous precedent for political intervention in state affairs.
The Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, has defended the declaration, placing the blame on Governor Fubara for escalating tensions in the state. However, opposition figures and legal experts insist that due process was not followed and that the action violates fundamental democratic principles.
A Nation Divided
The Federal Government’s stance remains firm, insisting that the emergency rule is essential for stabilizing Rivers State. However, with increasing resistance from political stakeholders, legal challenges could soon follow. The coming weeks will determine whether the Tinubu administration can withstand the growing pressure to rescind the declaration or if this move will further deepen Nigeria’s political divide.
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Senate Approves Controversial Emergency Rule in Rivers, Calls for Mediation