Controversy Over Voice Votes in Nigerian State of Emergency Approval

Nigerian lawmakers approved President Tinubu’s State of Emergency in Rivers using voice votes, despite constitutional mandates for a two-thirds majority vote. Critics, including bankers and activists, argued that proper individual voting is necessary for accountability and transparency. The approval occurred without public debate, leading to concerns about the legitimacy of the process amidst ongoing political conflicts in the state.

The Nigerian parliament’s two chambers recently approved President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a State of Emergency in Rivers State using voice votes. This decision sparked controversy as Section 305 (6b) of the Nigerian constitution explicitly requires a two-thirds majority vote from all members in both chambers for such an approval. Many citizens expressed disappointment at the lack of transparent voting procedures that would clarify the lawmakers’ support for the president’s declaration.

A prominent banker, Atedo Peterside, emphasized that a two-thirds majority cannot be determined through voice votes alone. He argued that members should identify themselves and vote individually to ensure accountability and transparency in the process. Activist Dele Farotimi supported this viewpoint, urging Senator Akpabio not to utilize voice votes for determining adherence to constitutional requirements, noting that the vote must be adequately counted and transparent.

Despite these appeals, the National Assembly, which is largely composed of members from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), proceeded with the voice votes. The presiding officers claimed that the required majority was achieved without a public debate, as the Senate held a closed session for nearly 80 minutes before conducting the voice vote. During this vote, there were no documented objections from senators.

President Tinubu implemented the State of Emergency in response to a political conflict in Rivers State involving Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor Nyesom Wike, stating that the situation had worsened and disrupted governance. The emergency rule entails suspending Fubara, his deputy, and state legislators for six months.

In summary, the approval of President Tinubu’s State of Emergency in Rivers State by the National Assembly via voice votes raised significant concerns regarding constitutional compliance and transparency. Observers and activists have criticized the process as insufficient for meeting the required two-thirds majority. This situation reflects an ongoing debate about legislative accountability in Nigeria, particularly under the influence of the ruling party. The implications for governance in Rivers State remain to be observed in the coming months.

Original Source: www.premiumtimesng.com