National Assembly Approves State of Emergency in Rivers State Amidst Controversy

The National Assembly has approved President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, despite concerns over the constitutionality of the process. The approval was made through a voice vote, which has been criticized by some as insufficient to guarantee fairness and transparency.

The state of emergency was declared due to the escalating crisis in Rivers State, which has seen pipeline bombings and explosions. President Tinubu’s decision was backed by the National Assembly, with Senate President Godswill Akpabio stating that the approval was unanimous.

However, some lawmakers and lawyers have expressed concerns over the process, arguing that a voice vote was insufficient to determine a two-thirds majority as required by the constitution. Former presidential candidate Peter Obi also criticized the National Assembly’s decision, stating that it was an insult to Nigerians and a breach of the constitution.

The development has sparked widespread debate, with some arguing that the state of emergency was necessary to prevent further violence and instability, while others see it as an attempt to undermine democracy and the rule of law.