Opeyemi Bamidele: N’assembly ratified emergency rule to prevent anarchy in Rivers

Opeyemi Bamidele, the senate majority leader, has justified the national assembly’s unanimous approval of the emergency rule in Rivers imposed by President Bola Tinubu.

The senate leader spoke on Saturday at the Ekiti State University’s 29th convocation in Ado Ekiti, where he received an honorary doctor of law (honoris causa) degree.

Bamidele said lawmakers prioritised national interest over party loyalty or presidential influence by endorsing the emergency rule proclamation despite public opposition.

Tinubu declared an emergency rule in Rivers on March 18, citing a protracted political crisis in the state and vandalisation of oil facilities.

The president also suspended Siminalayi Fubara, the governor of Rivers; Ngozi Odu, his deputy; and members of the state assembly.

Tinubu nominated Ibok-Ete Ibas, a retired vice-admiral, as the state’s sole administrator.

The senate and house of representatives controversially approved Tinubu’s emergency rule request through a voice vote.

Bamidele said an emergency rule is an extraordinary measure that must be treated in the interest of peace and security.

“What exactly do we want as a people? A federation that functions for all? Or a federation that relapses into an intractable crisis?” he asked.

“We must recognise that emergency rule is an extraordinary measure, and it must be treated as such in the interest of peace and security.

“As stipulated in section 305 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the national assembly is required to provide its details.

“The provisions of the 1999 Constitution cannot be interpreted casually without proper understanding of the Nigeria Interpretation Act, 2004.

“As a responsible and responsive parliament that sees peace and stability as a catalyst of growth and development, we were inaugurated into office to promote a nation that works for all and that guarantees the peaceful coexistence of all.

“This desire defines our resolve to ratify the proclamation of the state of emergency in Rivers state with far-reaching provisions.

“One of such provisions is the constitution of the national peace committee to midwife the peace process between the executive and legislature in the state.

“We should be commended for this laudable initiative and not be vilified by some political actors who do not bother about what happens to our national security but about their parochial interest.

“Regardless of their unpatriotic moves, we firmly stand for the peace and stability of Nigeria.

“We shall continue to leverage the authority of the national assembly to guarantee her peaceful co-existence.

“Our decision, as an institution, is taken purely in the national interest. If any interest is unsatisfied with it, they can as well seek redress in the law court.”

Bamidele added that opposition parties are “viciously attacking” the national assembly based on emotion and sentiment rather than reasons and substantive issues.