The Senate has announced plans to debate the motion on the state of emergency declared in Rivers State during Thursday’s plenary session. This was confirmed by Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, Chairman of the Senate Inter-Parliamentary Committee, during a briefing in Abuja.
The motion, titled ‘Proclamation of State of Emergency in Rivers’ was sponsored by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele and included in Wednesday’s Order Paper but was not debated. Ibrahim assured that it would be thoroughly discussed on Thursday without further delay.
Explaining the postponement, Ibrahim noted that Ramadan observance played a role. “Tomorrow morning, members will be informed. They are fasting and praying today at home,” Ibrahim stated during the briefing. “By 10 o’clock, they will be present, and we shall commence debate. Life and security matters are serious and cannot be treated lightly,” he added.
Ibrahim defended President Bola Tinubu’s decision to declare the emergency, explaining that democratic institutions in Rivers were temporarily suspended, not dissolved, for six months to address the crisis. “The President did not dissolve democratic institutions. Suspension for six months allows time for dialogue and resolution,” Ibrahim emphasized. He highlighted that this measure was designed to foster peace and stability in Rivers State and align with constitutional provisions.
Addressing suggestions that the motion was postponed due to a lack of quorum, Ibrahim dismissed such claims, stating, “Two-thirds of the Senate equals 73. On Tuesday, 78 senators signed the register, including presiding and principal officers.” He explained that the decision to adjourn was to enable broader participation in Thursday’s session.
“Democracy values numbers and participation. We decided to adjourn for more inclusivity. Today, 68 senators signed in. Although there are 10 Senate leaders to reach, we had more than a quorum. We could have proceeded but avoided passing the proclamation while members were fasting or absent, to prevent misunderstandings,” Ibrahim clarified.
The declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State is based on Section 305 of the Nigerian Constitution, which grants the President the authority to take extraordinary measures in situations involving serious security threats. However, for the proclamation to remain valid, it must be debated and approved by the National Assembly within two days; otherwise, it will automatically expire.
Many citizens, however, have raised concerns that the decision could face legal challenges, particularly since it is perceived as unconstitutional or politically driven.
As the Senate prepares to deliberate, both legal and political analysts are keeping a close eye on the developments, anticipating how this unprecedented situation will play out in the days ahead.