Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
The Nigerian Senate, Thursday gave its approval to the state of emergency imposed on Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu.
This is coming barely 48 hours after the President declared emergency rule on the oil-rich state.
The President had also suspended Gov. Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and members of the State House of Assembly.
Senate took the resolution to approve the emergency rule in a closed-door session where the legislators deliberated on the matter.
The decision to retire to a closed-door session was announced after Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, read a letter from Tinubu at plenary.
Senate leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, subsequently moved a motion for a closed session under Order 135 of the Senate rules.
According to senate sources, the lawmakers in a voice vote approved the President’s request.
Announcing the outcome, Akpabio stated that the Senate had exercised its powers under Section 305(2) of the Constitution to endorse the president’s proclamation.
“We hope that the President’s declaration will foster peace and resolve the ongoing impasse in Rivers State,” Akpabio said.
Meanwhile, the Senate urged Tinubu to establish an ad hoc committee composed of “eminent Nigerians” to mediate between the warring factions in Rivers State.
The Senate also resolved that the President should review or terminate the state of emergency at any time, but not later than six months from now.
