The National Assembly is set to deliberate on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s request for a state of emergency in Rivers State today.
The letter, addressed to both chambers of the Assembly, was initially scheduled for discussion yesterday but was postponed twice in the Senate due to an insufficient number of lawmakers present.
Reports indicate that the Senate leadership chose to step down the motion because the required 73 votes needed to approve a state of emergency could not be met. Many senators were reportedly absent due to the ongoing Ramadan fast, while others were away in Saudi Arabia for the lesser Hajj.
To ensure that the motion is addressed today, Senators who are outside Abuja have been recalled to participate in the plenary session.
The potential emergency rule declaration follows recent political tensions in Rivers State, with concerns over governance stability and security. The move has sparked mixed reactions, with some stakeholders supporting federal intervention, while others warn against any actions that could destabilize the state further.
As the Senate and House of Representatives reconvene today, all eyes will be on their decision regarding Tinubu’s request and its implications for Rivers State’s political future.
