Despite prior assurances, the House of Representatives on Wednesday failed to deliberate on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, leaving many Nigerians questioning the delay.
House spokesperson, Hon. Akin Rotimi, had earlier stated that the matter would be addressed during plenary, confirming that the President had officially notified the National Assembly in line with constitutional requirements.
“The National Assembly was duly consulted by the President. Mr. President’s formal letter, informing the House of Representatives of his decision and seeking approval in line with Section 305 of the Constitution, has been transmitted and will be read during plenary tomorrow, Wednesday, March 19, 2025,” Rotimi had said.
However, when lawmakers convened, the issue was conspicuously absent from discussions. Sources revealed that the delay was due to poor attendance, with fewer than 120 lawmakers present out of the 360-member chamber.
With Deputy Speaker Benjamin Okezie Kalu presiding, members opted to defer the debate to Thursday’s plenary when a higher turnout is expected.
While several lawmakers declined to comment on the postponement, insiders assured that deliberations on the controversial emergency rule would still take place.
