On Wednesday, the Nigerian Senate stepped down the debate and ratification of the state of emergency in Rivers State, citing the absence of many lawmakers who needed to meet the required two-thirds majority.
Why the Debate Was Postponed
The emergency rule that led to the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Odu, was listed on the Order Paper for discussion by Senate Leader Michael Opeyemi Bamidele. However, sources within the Senate disclosed that several lawmakers deliberately avoided the plenary to distance themselves from what some described as a “web of illegality.”
NAIJABLOGDAILY.COM
A ranking senator from the ruling party, speaking anonymously, suggested that some lawmakers did not want to be involved in the controversy, given the strong public backlash against the emergency declaration.
Another senator, when asked about the legality of the decision, responded:
“The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, is a lawyer; Senate Leader, Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, is a lawyer—let them explain the legality of the Rivers impasse.”
Public Outcry Over Emergency Rule
The declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu on March 18, 2025, has drawn widespread criticism from Nigerians, with many questioning the constitutional basis for suspending an elected governor.
What’s Next?
The Senate is expected to resume debate on the emergency rule on Thursday.
Political analysts predict intense deliberations, as opposition lawmakers and legal experts challenge the constitutionality of the action.
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The fate of Governor Fubara and Rivers State’s political future now hinges on the Senate’s final decision.
Stay tuned to Naija Blog Daily for the latest updates on the Rivers State crisis and national political developments.
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