The Nigerian Senate on Thursday went into a closed session to discuss President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State and the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and all elected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly.
The emergency rule, announced on Tuesday night, has sparked nationwide debate, with some lawmakers and political observers questioning its legality and implications for Nigeria’s democracy.
Senate Goes Behind Closed Doors
Senate President Godswill Akpabio called for the closed session after reading Tinubu’s letter detailing the reasons for the emergency rule. Following this, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele moved a motion to hold a private deliberation, citing Order 135 of the Senate rules. The motion was quickly seconded by Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro.
The Senate’s decision to discuss the matter behind closed doors has raised concerns among Nigerians who want transparency on an issue of national significance.
Why Tinubu Declared Emergency Rule
In his national broadcast, President Tinubu said the decision to suspend the governor and other elected officials was necessary to restore order in Rivers State. He cited prolonged political instability, constitutional violations, and security threats as justification for the extraordinary measure.
“The political crisis in Rivers State has made governance impossible and threatens the peace and security of the people. The federal government must act to prevent further breakdown of law and order,” Tinubu said in his address.
The crisis in Rivers State has been linked to a power struggle between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, who is now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. Their political battle has divided the state government and led to legislative and executive conflicts.
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A Retired Naval Officer to Take Over
As part of the emergency rule, Tinubu appointed Vice Admiral Ibok-Étè Ibas (retd.) as the sole administrator of Rivers State. Ibas, a former Chief of Naval Staff who served from 2015 to 2021 under ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, has been tasked with overseeing the state’s affairs until normalcy is restored.
The appointment of a military officer, even in a civilian capacity, has fueled concerns among opposition politicians and civil society groups. Many see it as a step toward weakening democratic governance in the state.
Mixed Reactions from Lawmakers and the Public
The Senate’s decision to debate the matter in private has not been well received by some Nigerians. Critics argue that the issue affects millions of people and should be discussed openly.
A political analyst, Yusuf Ibrahim, described the situation as “dangerous for democracy.”
He said, “Suspending elected officials without due process sets a dangerous precedent. What stops the federal government from doing the same in other states with political disputes?”
On the other hand, some lawmakers support Tinubu’s move, arguing that it is necessary to prevent Rivers State from descending into chaos.
Senator Ahmed Lawan, a supporter of the president’s decision, stated, “The security of the people must come first. If an emergency rule is the only way to bring stability, then it is justified.”
However, some opposition lawmakers are calling for a review of the decision.
A senator from the South-South region who requested anonymity said, “This is an abuse of power. We cannot allow this to continue.”