Former PDP National Chairman and ex-Minister of Agriculture, Audu Ogbeh, has cautioned Nigerian lawmakers that their votes on President Bola Tinubu’s emergency rule in Rivers State will one day be scrutinized by their grandchildren and future researchers.
Speaking on Channels TV’s Politics Today, Ogbeh criticized the National Assembly’s voice vote system, arguing that it lacks transparency and accountability.
“Ayes and nays do not give a clear picture of individual positions. Nobody should hide under a shadow. If you support a vote, say so; if you don’t, be open about it. This system is a camouflage,” he stated.
Ogbeh proposed a digital voting system where every lawmaker’s vote is recorded and printed for public reference.
“In 10 to 20 years, future generations and researchers will want to know how each legislator voted on critical bills,” he added.
Concerns Over Niger Delta Stability
Addressing the potential fallout of the Rivers crisis, Ogbeh warned against escalating tensions in the Niger Delta.
“Rivers State is bigger than any individual. Nigeria has lived off the Niger Delta for 40 years. Their oil has fueled our economy. We cannot afford a crisis there,” he stressed.
Ogbeh urged President Tinubu to seek mediation from notable Nigerians instead of resorting to emergency rule, emphasizing dialogue as the best path forward.
