The Senate has postponed its scheduled debate on the motion to approve the proclamation of a state of emergency in Rivers State until 3 p.m. on Wednesday, without providing much explanation for the delay.
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The motion, sponsored by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, was expected to be debated and voted on during the morning session. However, lawmakers unexpectedly deferred discussions.
The motion expresses concern over escalating tensions in Rivers State, which have paralyzed governance and hindered the delivery of democratic dividends to residents.
“Worried that there is a clear and present danger of the crises as some militants had threatened fire and brimstone with security reports of disturbing incidents of vandalization of oil pipelines.
“Convinced that there is a need to provide adequate and extraordinary measures to restore good governance, peace, order, and security in Rivers State.”
To approve the declaration, the Senate requires a two-thirds majority (73 out of 109 senators) for the emergency rule to take effect.
On Tuesday, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State following the prolonged political crisis in the oil-rich South-South state. During a nationwide broadcast, Tinubu suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for six months.
The president also appointed Vice Admiral Ibok-Étè Ibas (retd.) as the administrator to oversee the affairs of the state during the period of emergency rule.
Meanwhile, the House of Representatives concluded its plenary session on Wednesday without addressing the emergency rule in Rivers State. Despite the gravity of the situation, no mention was made regarding the president’s proclamation or the legislative approval required for its implementation.
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