Opeyemi Bamidele, leader of the 10th Senate, has defended the National Assembly’s decision to approve President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of emergency rule in Rivers State, arguing that lawmakers deserve commendation rather than criticism.
Speaking at the 29th convocation of Ekiti State University in Ado Ekiti, where he received an honorary doctorate, Bamidele argued that the intervention was necessary to maintain peace and stability in the state.
Bamidele emphasised that as a responsible and responsive parliament, the National Assembly treated the issue as an extraordinary measure aimed at preserving peace.
“What exactly do we want as a people? A federation that functions for all? Or a federation that relapses into an intractable crisis?
“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 a 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.”
Bamidele further stated that the approval of emergency rule significantly eased political tensions in Rivers State, preventing a potential crisis.
Despite the role of the National Assembly in averting chaos, Bamidele lamented that lawmakers were unfairly subjected to harsh criticism, particularly from opposition parties.
“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 also seek redress in the law court.
“Regardless of the baseless attacks our critics are throwing at the National Assembly, we are undeterred because we are truly on a rescue mission. This does not suggest we are afraid of criticism. But such criticisms must be constructive and well structured to provide alternative, credible and patriotic initiatives,” Bamidele stated.
The convocation ceremony was attended by top government officials, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Deputy Senate President Jubril Barau, Deputy Senate Leader Lola Ashiru, Deputy Senate Whip Onyekachi Nwaebonyi, and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriation, Olamilekan Adeola.
Alongside Bamidele, the Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, Dr. Zacch Adedeji, and the Chairman of the Governing Board of the Bank of Industry, Dr. Mansur Muhtar, were also honoured at the event.
