Senator Jimoh Ibrahim On Postponement Of Rivers State Emergency Debate

Why the Rivers State Emergency Debate Was Pushed Back

Alright, here's the scoop. The Senate Committee on Inter-Parliamentary Affairs Chairman, Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, recently spoke about why the debate on the state of emergency declared in Rivers State was postponed. This decision wasn’t made lightly. The postponement, he explained, was to ensure that all senators, even those who couldn’t make it due to religious observances or other commitments, had a chance to weigh in on this critical issue. It’s all about inclusivity and making sure every voice is heard when it comes to matters of national importance.

When chatting with a group of journalists on Wednesday, Ibrahim pointed out that the delay wasn’t because of any lack of urgency but rather to accommodate the schedules of absent lawmakers. Many senators, he noted, were observing Ramadan or simply couldn’t attend the session for various reasons. This isn’t just about ticking boxes; it’s about ensuring that everyone has a say in shaping the future of our nation.

Naija News caught up with Ibrahim, who represents Ondo South in the Senate, and he elaborated on the necessity of the postponement. He said, “First thing tomorrow morning, the proclamation will be debated. By then, information will have gone to other members. Some members are fasting; they are praying in their homes. Tomorrow, they will be here, and then by 10 o’clock, we pick it up.” It’s a strategic move to ensure that everyone is in the loop and ready to contribute meaningfully to the discussion.

Read also:

How Much Do Our Favorite Tv Actors Really Earn

Why a Full Quorum Matters

Ibrahim underscored the importance of having a full quorum for the debate. He stressed that it’s not just about reaching the required number of members—it’s about ensuring that the debate is comprehensive and well-rounded. He remarked, “Today, we had 68 members outside of 10 members of the leadership who are present, so we have a quorum. It’s not just about the numbers. I am in tandem with Mr. President because this borders on life and security. We don’t joke with life and security.” It’s clear that the stakes are high, and the Senate is taking every step to ensure that the decision-making process is thorough and responsible.

Tinubu’s Declaration: A Necessary Step

On Tuesday night, President Bola Tinubu made the bold move to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State. This decision came after a series of troubling developments, including prolonged political instability, breaches of the constitution, and escalating security threats. The president wasn’t taking any chances. In fact, he went so far as to suspend Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for an initial six-month period. It was a bold move, but one that many believe was necessary to restore peace and order in the region.

In a national broadcast, President Tinubu also appointed Vice Admiral Ibok-Étè Ibas (retd.) as the sole administrator to oversee the state’s affairs during this transitional period. The goal is clear: to bring stability back to Rivers State as quickly and efficiently as possible. This isn’t just about fixing a local issue; it’s about ensuring that the ripple effects don’t destabilize the entire nation.

Clearing Up Misconceptions

Sometimes, when big decisions like this are made, there’s bound to be some confusion or misinformation floating around. That’s why Senator Jimoh Ibrahim took the time to clarify some key points about the president’s declaration. He emphasized that this wasn’t an attack on democracy—it was a temporary measure aimed at fostering peace and stability. He explained, “The President did not dissolve democratic constitutions. He only suspended them for six months. And these six months will enable parties to go to the table, find out their differences, and come together so that there can be peace in Rivers State and, by extension, Nigeria.”

The senator also reiterated just how serious the situation in Rivers State is. Security threats are real, and they can’t be ignored. President Tinubu’s intervention, according to Ibrahim, aligns perfectly with his responsibility to ensure peace and security across the country. It’s a reminder that, in times of crisis, strong leadership is essential to protect the well-being of all citizens.