The House of Representatives on Thursday approved President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s request for a state of emergency in Rivers State but not without key amendments to ensure constitutional compliance and a defined duration.
During plenary, Speaker Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, presented the President’s request, allowing lawmakers to debate before a final vote. However, the session took a critical turn when Hon. Obinna Aguocha (Labour Party, Abia State) raised a constitutional point of order, insisted that the House must strictly follow Section 305(6b) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which mandated a two-thirds majority for such approval. Aguocha demanded a headcount to ensure the legality of the process.
Responding, Speaker Abbas assured that the attendance register would be referenced, later confirmed that 243 lawmakers were present in the chamber.
Adding to the debate, Hon. Fredrick Agbedi (PDP, Bayelsa) reminded the House of the trust Nigerians have in its leadership and urged that due process be followed to maintain public confidence.
Hon. Philip Agbese (APC, Benue) proposed the formation of a special committee comprising National Assembly members, the Executive, and notable Nigerians to mediate in the Rivers crisis.
House Minority Whip Hon. Ali Isa JC also pushed for an amendment, recommending that the state of emergency be subject to periodic review, with a maximum duration of six months but allowing for early termination if necessary.
Following the debates, the House approved the amendments via a voice vote and subsequently adopted the proceedings before adjourning to Tuesday, March 25, 2025.
With the House of Representatives modifying the executive order and the Senate granting approval, all eyes are now on the implementation and potential political fallout in Rivers State.
