The National Assembly is bracing for a stormy session today as lawmakers prepare to debate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.
Originally scheduled for Wednesday,March 19th, the debate was postponed due to heightened tensions, particularly in the House of Representatives. The Senate also delayed discussions, struggling to secure the necessary two-thirds majority for approval. Now, the matter is set to be revisited at 3 p.m. today.
By constitutional mandate, the National Assembly has 48 hours to either approve or reject the emergency declaration. This deadline expires at midnight, adding pressure to today’s proceedings.
One major challenge is the low turnout of lawmakers, as several members are currently in Saudi Arabia for Umrah (lesser hajj). Calls have been made for their urgent return to ensure a decisive vote.
The president justified his decision by citing escalating political tensions in Rivers State. His declaration led to the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and the entire Rivers State House of Assembly for six months. In their place, he appointed retired Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Ibok-Ette Ibas, as the state’s new administrator.
Opinions remain sharply split. Some lawmakers, particularly those aligned with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), argue that the emergency rule is necessary to stabilize the state. However, opposition parties, including the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), strongly oppose it, calling it an unconstitutional power grab.
The PDP Governors’ Forum has vowed to challenge the decision in court, warning that it sets a dangerous precedent that could undermine Nigeria’s democracy.
If the National Assembly upholds the emergency rule, Fubara and his team will remain suspended, and Ibas will continue governing Rivers State for six months. However, if lawmakers reject the declaration, the situation could take another twist, potentially reinstating Fubara and intensifying the crisis.
With tensions at an all-time high, today’s session is set to determine the political fate of Rivers State.
