The Senate has deferred deliberation on a motion to approve the state of emergency in Rivers State, pushing the discussion to 3 p.m. without offering a clear reason for the delay.
The motion, sponsored by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, was set to be debated in the morning session but was unexpectedly stepped down.
It highlights concerns over the deepening crisis, which has disrupted governance and services in the state.
“Worried that there is a clear and present danger of the crises as some militants had threatened fire and brimstone with security report of disturbing incidents of vandalization of oil pipelines.
“Convinced that there is the need to provide adequate and extra ordinary measures to restore good governance, peace, order and security in Rivers State.”
For the emergency rule to take effect, the Senate must secure a two-thirds majority—73 out of 109 senators.
President Bola Tinubu had declared a state of emergency in Rivers on Tuesday, citing the prolonged political crisis.
His proclamation, made during a nationwide broadcast, suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all House of Assembly members for six months.
Tinubu also appointed Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (rtd) as the state administrator for the duration of the emergency rule.
