Detailed Account of Senate Proceedings Regarding the Rivers State State of Emergency Proclamation
Today, the Nigerian Senate convened to deliberate on the President’s proclamation of a state of emergency in Rivers State.
This matter, of significant national importance, brought forth a range of perspectives and constitutional interpretations. As a senator committed to upholding the tenets of democracy and the Nigerian constitution, I raised several objections during the closed session, expressing deep concerns regarding the proclamation’s adherence to constitutional prescriptions.
Specifically, my contention centered on the perceived constitutional shortcomings of the declaration, particularly the suspension of elected officials within the Rivers State government. I firmly believe that such actions warrant rigorous scrutiny and adherence to established legal frameworks.
The Senate’s deliberations, conducted in a closed session, were marked by robust exchanges and varying viewpoints. I extend my sincere gratitude to Senator Aminu Waziri Tambuwal for his unwavering support in highlighting the unconstitutionality of the proclamation, especially the contentious aspect concerning the suspension of democratically elected officials. His articulation of these concerns resonated deeply with my own convictions.
Despite our efforts to advocate for a more thorough examination of the constitutional implications, the majority of senators ultimately favored the proclamation. Regrettably, the opportunity for an open debate on the Senate floor, as I had requested, was not granted. In light of this, I chose to withdraw from the plenary session before the Senate President’s report on the outcome, as I could not bear witness to the formalization of a decision I vehemently opposed. I understand that Senators Tambuwal, Abaribe, and others also elected to leave the session.
To reiterate, I unequivocally opposed and voted against the proclamation during the closed session, a stance shared and supported by Senator Aminu Tambuwal and a few other senators whose voices were not recognized during the session.
I express my gratitude to those senators who aligned with my perspective and advocated for a more constitutionally sound approach.
I am cognizant of the efforts to modify the declaration in response to the concerns and viewpoints we have articulated over the past few days. While I acknowledge the attempts by the leadership and the President to moderate the declaration’s terms and establish oversight mechanisms, these adjustments do not fundamentally address the core issue of its constitutionality.
The democratic process, by its nature, allows for the minority’s voice to be heard, even as the majority’s will prevails. I had earnestly hoped for a more comprehensive and open debate, enabling all perspectives to be fully articulated, as I had requested during and after the closed session.
However, both chambers of the legislature have made their decisions, and the matter now rests with other branches of government, particularly the judiciary, should any challenges arise.
Furthermore, my attention has been drawn to a widely circulated video depicting portions of the exchange between the Senate President and myself prior to the closed session.
As I stated on the Senate floor, I found the Senate President’s actions deeply unfair. His attempts to censor my freedom of expression and misrepresent my statements from yesterday’s broadcast, which mirrored my statements on the floor today, were unwarranted. My opposition, both in principle and in practice, stems from the proclamation’s declaration of a state of emergency and the suspension of elected officials.
I extend my appreciation to those who have expressed support and commended my composure in the face of an unexpected and unwarranted attempt at intimidation. Everyone, including the Senate President, is aware that I have long surpassed the point where such tactics would have any effect.
The Senate, as I have stated, is a body of equals, and mutual respect is paramount. Respect is accorded to the Chair, and similarly, every senator deserves respect.
No senator should require the Senate President’s permission to express their views on a matter of national importance that is already within the public domain.
I intend to meet with the Senate President to formally register my displeasure and prevent any recurrence of such incidents.
I thank my constituents, the Nigerian people, and all those who have expressed solidarity and urge them not to be discouraged by the apparent trajectory of our democracy. For someone like myself, who has been engaged in advocacy and activism for many years, these challenges are a call to action. I implore all individuals of goodwill to unite in ensuring the promotion of participatory democracy in our nation.
Our thoughts and prayers remain with the people of Rivers State.