Nigerian lawmakers approved a state of emergency in Rivers state via voice votes, despite constitutional mandates requiring a two-thirds majority vote. Many citizens criticized this method, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability through individual voting. President Bola Tinubu’s declaration follows rising political tensions, leading to the suspension of state officials.
In Nigeria, lawmakers from both the Senate and House of Representatives utilized voice votes to approve President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers state, despite a constitutional requirement for a two-thirds majority vote. According to Section 305 (6b) of the Nigerian constitution, such proclamations need the approval from two-thirds of members in each legislative chamber, meaning both chambers must validate the majority numerically to fulfill legal obligations.
Many Nigerians had anticipated proper voting procedures to provide transparency regarding lawmakers’ support for the emergency declaration. Banker Atedo Peterside expressed on X that achieving a two-thirds majority is impossible through a voice vote, as individual identification and casting of votes are essential for accountability. Activist Dele Farotimi echoed this sentiment, insisting that clear numerical votes must replace ambiguous voice votes.
Ignoring public calls for transparency, the Nigerian National Assembly, dominated by the ruling APC party, proceeded with voice votes, with presiding officers claiming the necessary majority. Notably, the Senate conducted a closed-door session lasting 80 minutes before holding the voice vote publicly, with no opposing voices observed.
President Tinubu’s state of emergency in Rivers was triggered by escalating political tensions between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and former Governor Nyesom Wike, stating that the situation was obstructing governance in the state. Under the emergency rule, the president has suspended Fubara, his deputy, and members of the state legislature for six months pending resolution.
The controversy surrounding the voice votes in the Nigerian parliament has raised significant concerns about the adherence to constitutional procedures for approving a state of emergency. With many Nigerians advocating for transparency and accountability, the use of voice votes rather than recorded votes is viewed as a circumvention of legal requirements. The political situation in Rivers state remains precarious, highlighting the need for proper governance procedures amidst conflicts.
Original Source: www.premiumtimesng.com
