Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, has strongly condemned the National Assembly’s decision to use a voice vote to approve President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State. Describing the move as an “illegality,” Obi accused lawmakers of worsening an already tense situation by approving the decision without a transparent voting process.
Obi’s Reaction to the Voice Vote
Peter Obi expressed outrage over the method used to pass the motion, arguing that a voice vote lacks transparency and accountability. He believes such a crucial decision affecting an entire state should have been subjected to an open, recorded vote rather than a process where lawmakers simply shout “aye” or “nay.”
“They have added salt to injury by using a voice vote to pass the illegality,” Obi stated, emphasizing that the emergency declaration could undermine democracy and governance in Rivers State.
Why the State of Emergency Was Declared
The political crisis in Rivers State, largely fueled by tensions between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and political forces aligned with former Governor Nyesom Wike, has led to a breakdown in governance. The federal government, citing concerns over law and order, moved to impose emergency rule, effectively allowing federal intervention in state affairs.
Obi’s Concerns Over Democracy
Peter Obi and several opposition figures believe the state of emergency could be a political tool to weaken opposition and exert undue federal control over Rivers State. He argues that such a major decision should have been debated thoroughly, with lawmakers publicly casting their votes rather than resorting to a voice vote, which allows for manipulation.
Public and Political Reactions
Obi’s criticism has sparked diverse reactions:
Supporters of the state of emergency argue it is necessary to restore order.
Opposition voices, including Obi, see it as a dangerous precedent that could be used against other states in the future.
Social media is also buzzing with debates on the legality of the process, with many Nigerians questioning whether the National Assembly acted in the best interest of democracy. The declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State has deepened political divisions in Nigeria. With opposition figures like Peter Obi raising alarms over the legitimacy of the process, the coming days will determine whether the decision stands or faces legal and political challenges.
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Written By Fortune Davidson