Both chambers of the National Assembly were unable to discuss President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State as anticipated on Wednesday.
The Senate postponed the debate until Thursday after the leadership of the Red Chamber delayed the start of its plenary for nearly two hours, as many serving senators across party lines had not yet taken their seats.
The debate was subsequently pushed to 3pm without much explanation when Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele (APC Ekiti Central), who sponsored the motion, moved to defer it, citing Order 1(b) of the Senate Standing Orders 2023 (as amended).
The motion was seconded by Minority Leader Abba Moro (PDP, Benue South), and the chamber then moved on to the next agenda item without further discussion.
The motion proposed by Bamidele expressed concern about the worsening security situation in Rivers State.
“Worried that there is a clear and present danger posed by the crises, as some militants have threatened violence, with security reports indicating disturbing incidents of oil pipeline vandalism.
“Convinced that there is a pressing need for adequate and extraordinary measures to restore good governance, peace, order, and security in Rivers State,” the motion stated in part.
The situation was similar in the House of Representatives, where members also failed to discuss the matter on Wednesday, despite earlier assurances that it would be addressed.
House spokesperson Akin Rotimi had previously indicated that the issue would be debated during that day’s plenary.
Following Tinubu’s nationwide broadcast on Tuesday announcing the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and state lawmakers, Rotimi confirmed that the National Assembly had been formally notified.
“The National Assembly was duly consulted by the President. Mr President’s formal letter, informing the House of Representatives of his decision and seeking approval in line with Section 305 of the Constitution, has been transmitted and will be read during plenary tomorrow, Wednesday, March 19, 2025,” Rotimi stated.
However, contrary to expectations, the House did not deliberate on the matter during Wednesday’s session.
Investigations revealed that the discussion was postponed due to a lack of attendance at the plenary.
It was noted that fewer than 120 lawmakers were present in the 360-member chamber.
Sources indicated that lawmakers opted to defer the discussion until Thursday’s session when more members are expected to be in attendance.
On Tuesday, Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, suspending Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the state House of Assembly for six months.
He stated that this decision was aimed at restoring stability in the state, which has faced political unrest due to conflicts between the governor and lawmakers.
As part of the emergency measures, Tinubu appointed former Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Ibokette Ibas as the state’s administrator.
