The Nigerian Senate has given full approval to the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu.
During Thursday’s plenary, senators unanimously invoked Section 305 (2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) to endorse the emergency proclamation. The session was presided over by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Following a closed-door meeting that lasted over two hours, Akpabio announced that the emergency rule would be in effect for a period not exceeding six months, subject to review.
To oversee governance in Rivers State during this period, the Senate established a Joint Committee with the House of Representatives.
It also recommended the formation of a body comprising “eminent Nigerians” to mediate the political crisis in the state and reconcile the warring factions.
After announcing the resolutions, Akpabio sought confirmation from the senators, who responded with a resounding chorus of “ayes.”
He then put the motion to a formal vote, which passed unanimously without any opposition.
However, the session was not without drama. Before the Senate moved into the closed-door meeting, a brief confrontation occurred between Akpabio and Senator Seriake Dickson, former governor of Bayelsa State, who represents Bayelsa-West Senatorial District.
As Akpabio read President Tinubu’s letter to the Senate, Dickson interjected, shouting, “Point of order!” twice in a bid to be recognized.
Initially ignoring him, Akpabio responded by referencing a televised comment where Dickson allegedly stated that he would not support the Senate’s decision.
“Let us not argue. We are all Distinguished Senators. You are a former governor, I am a former governor. Let us be mindful of what we do,” Akpabio said, urging decorum.
Dickson protested, insisting he was being unfairly denied a chance to speak.
“Please, we must always have mutual respect for all our colleagues,” he noted, citing Senate Standing Orders 133 and 135, which mandate an executive session upon receipt of such a proclamation.
Akpabio acknowledged the validity of Dickson’s point but reminded him that he had interrupted while Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele was already moving for a closed-door session.
The dispute was eventually resolved, and the Senate proceeded behind closed doors to deliberate, ultimately endorsing the emergency rule.
Credit: Nigerian Tribune except headline
