A Nigerian senator has strongly opposed the state of emergency declared by President Bola Tinubu in Rivers State, questioning its constitutionality amid allegations that lawmakers were financially induced to support the decision.
Rumours are rife that senators who backed the emergency declaration had met at the residence of the Senate President, where they allegedly received foreign currency to endorse the move.
Reacting to the development, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson publicly dissociated himself from the decision, revealing that he had opposed the declaration during a closed-door session of the Senate.
He maintained that the move did not align with constitutional provisions.
In a statement shared on his social media platform, Dickson reaffirmed his stance:
“Yesterday, at the Senate sitting, the President’s proclamation of a state of emergency in Rivers State was discussed. As I have repeatedly stated, I raised my objections during the closed session, arguing that the declaration did not meet constitutional requirements. As a democrat sworn to uphold the Nigerian constitution, I could not support it.”
He further commended Senator Aminu Waziri Tambuwal for standing against the declaration, particularly the aspect concerning the suspension of elected officials in Rivers State.
“At the end of the session, the majority of senators supported the proclamation, as no opportunity was given for an open debate at plenary,” Dickson added.
Explaining his actions, he said:
“I left the chamber before the Senate President presented the report because I did not want to be present while something I opposed was being endorsed. Senators Tambuwal, Abaribe, and a few others also left.”
According to Dickson, despite modifications made to the emergency declaration in response to concerns raised by some lawmakers, the fundamental issue of constitutionality remained unresolved.
“Democracy thrives when the minority has a voice, even if the majority ultimately prevails. I had hoped for a more transparent and open debate where all opinions could be freely expressed before a decision was made.”
He acknowledged that the decision now rests with other arms of government, particularly the judiciary, should a legal challenge arise.
The controversy follows President Tinubu’s move to impose a state of emergency in Rivers State due to an ongoing political crisis.
As Dickson’s statement gained traction online, Nigerians took to social media to share their opinions on the unfolding situation.
