The Nigerian Senate on Wednesday postponed its decision on whether to approve the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, choosing to adjourn deliberations until Thursday.
This development comes amid growing tensions over the prolonged political crisis in the state, which has led to disruptions in governance and heightened concerns about stability in the region.
During the plenary session, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele moved a motion for the matter to be deferred to the next legislative day, a proposal that was seconded by Minority Leader Abba Moro.
Following this, Senate President Godswill Akpabio put the motion to a voice vote, and the majority of lawmakers voted in favor of postponing the discussion.
Originally, the motion regarding the emergency rule in Rivers State was listed as the first item on the agenda for the day. However, it was suspended before any debate could be initiated.
The Senate’s order paper noted that the ongoing crisis in Rivers State has brought governance to a standstill, preventing residents from experiencing the benefits of democracy.
“The Senate also notes that the state has been at a standstill since the crises started, with the good people of Rivers State not being able to enjoy the dividends of democracy.”
“The Senate observes that the magnitude of the crisis has overwhelmed the state government as parties involved have not allowed good sense to prevail and bring about peace in the state. Hence, the federal government is attempting to restore peace, security, and good governance.”
This adjournment follows the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Tuesday. The president justified his decision by citing the prolonged political turmoil in the state, arguing that decisive action was necessary to prevent further instability.
With the Senate now set to revisit the matter on Thursday, all eyes remain on lawmakers as they deliberate on whether to ratify the president’s decision or explore alternative measures to resolve the crisis.