President Bola Tinubu faces resistance in securing a two-thirds majority in the National Assembly to validate emergency rule in Rivers State. Lawmakers question the legality of suspending Governor Fubara, while political divisions and absent legislators further complicate the vote. Failure to gain approval could overturn the proclamation.
President Bola Tinubu is facing significant resistance in his bid to secure a two-thirds majority in the National Assembly to validate his declaration of emergency rule in Rivers State. The controversial decision, which saw the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and all House of Assembly members, has sparked debate among lawmakers and legal experts, with many questioning its constitutional backing.
The 1999 Constitution mandates that such a proclamation must be approved by both chambers within two days if the legislature is in session, or within ten days if it is not. However, Tinubu’s camp is reportedly struggling to secure the necessary votes, as skepticism grows over the move’s legality and potential consequences for Nigeria’s democracy.
Sources within the National Assembly indicate that a significant number of lawmakers are either unconvinced or outright opposed to the emergency rule. Even within Tinubu’s All Progressives Congress (APC), divisions have emerged, with some legislators warning that approving such a move could set a dangerous precedent. The challenge is further complicated by the absence of several lawmakers, many of whom are currently outside the country.
The Senate on Wednesday deferred the motion to Thursday, underscoring the difficulty in securing the needed numbers. If Tinubu fails to gain approval, his emergency proclamation will be revoked, potentially restoring Fubara’s administration and raising further questions about the government’s handling of the Rivers political crisis.
