Senate postpones debate on Rivers State emergency proclamation

The Senate on Wednesday postponed four items from the day’s agenda, including a motion to approve President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a State of Emergency in Rivers State. The motion, initially scheduled for discussion, was moved to Thursday without any explanation.

Other items delayed included a report on the establishment of the Federal University of Medicine and Medical Sciences in Kogi State, a motion on the abuse of Nigeria’s federal character principle in public service, and three bills awaiting approval from the House of Representatives.

The motion on the State of Emergency in Rivers State, sponsored by Senate Leader Senator Opeyemi Bamidele (APC Ekiti Central), was first postponed until 3 pm, before being pushed to the following day for debate. The Senate requires a two-thirds majority (73 out of 109 senators) to approve the emergency rule, which would allow the federal government to take charge of the state.

In the motion, the Senate highlighted the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, noting the significant threats to peace, governance, and security. It also stressed that the state has been paralysed by the crisis, preventing residents from benefiting from democratic governance. The Senate expressed concern about increasing violence, including threats from militants and incidents of oil pipeline vandalism.

On Tuesday, President Tinubu declared the State of Emergency in Rivers State, following months of political unrest. He suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all members of the state’s House of Assembly for six months. The President also appointed Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd) as Sole Administrator for the state, citing the need for federal intervention to restore order and security.