On Thursday, the Senate witnessed a mild drama during its session to ratify the State of Emergency declared in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu.
Senators Aminu Tambuwal and Enyinnaya Abaribe were among those who notably voiced their dissent regarding the emergency declaration, particularly concerning the suspension of elected officials, which they contended was unconstitutional.
Despite their objections, the Senate overwhelmingly endorsed the president’s decision, effectively stifling any meaningful debate on the issue.
Commenting on the situation, Senator Dickson stated, “During today’s Senate sitting, we discussed the President’s proclamation of a state of emergency in Rivers State. I have consistently raised my objections—in our closed session—regarding how this declaration fails to meet constitutional requirements, as I am committed to upholding the Nigerian constitution.
“While the debate was vigorous, it was not conducted in an open session. I extend my gratitude to Senator Aminu Waziri Tambuwal for his steadfast support in addressing the unconstitutionality of the declaration, particularly regarding the suspension of elected officials from the Rivers State government.”
“In the end, the majority of senators backed the proclamation, as there was no opportunity for an open debate during the plenary. I chose to leave the session before the Senate President was instructed to report the outcome, as I did not want to be present when something I opposed was being endorsed. I believe Senators Tambuwal, Abaribe, and others departed as well.”
“I want to make it clear that I spoke and voted against the proclamation in our closed session, with the support of Senator Aminu Tambuwal and a few other senators who were not given the chance to voice their opinions.”
“I would like to thank all the senators who shared the perspective I passionately advocated.”
“While I recognise the efforts made to amend the declaration in light of our concerns expressed in recent days, I acknowledge that the leadership and the President are taking steps to moderate its terms and establish a mechanism for oversight. However, this does not address the fundamental issue of constitutionality.”
“The beauty of democracy lies in the fact that the minority can express their views while the majority proceeds as they see fit. I would have preferred a more robust and open debate so that all opinions could be thoroughly discussed, as I had requested even in our closed session. Nonetheless, both chambers have made their decisions, and the responsibility now lies with the other branches of government, particularly the judiciary, should any challenges arise.”
