The Nigerian Senate has affirmed that it adhered to constitutional procedures before approving the recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu. Senate spokesperson, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, emphasized that the National Assembly remains independent and is not merely endorsing executive decisions without scrutiny.
Adaramodu, who also chairs the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs and represents Ekiti South Senatorial District, made the remarks while speaking to journalists in his hometown, Ilawe Ekiti. Addressing concerns about the emergency declaration, he explained that Section 63 of the Constitution empowers the Senate and House of Representatives to establish internal rules and procedures, which they followed strictly.
He noted that, according to Section 305 of the Constitution, the president can declare a state of emergency if there is a threat to peace and national stability. However, such a declaration must be presented to the National Assembly for review within 48 hours. Adaramodu clarified that discussions on such security matters are conducted in closed sessions, as mandated by Senate Orders 134, 135, and 136, and decisions made during these sessions are not subject to further public debate.
“The matter was thoroughly deliberated in a closed session, and we unanimously agreed to support the declaration,” he said.
Adaramodu also revealed that the Senate made several additions to the president’s proposal. These include provisions ensuring that the emergency rule may be lifted earlier than six months if peace returns, and that the appointed sole administrator must report not only to the presidency but also remain under continuous oversight by the National Assembly. A committee has also been set up to mediate between conflicting parties in the state and submit a report to both the president and the legislature to help restore normalcy.
He urged Nigerians to avoid misinterpreting the Constitution and the National Assembly’s rules, stressing that lawmakers are committed to due process and upholding their responsibilities.
Responding to criticisms that the National Assembly acts as a rubber stamp for the executive, Adaramodu rejected the claim. “Does being a rubber stamp mean rejecting budget proposals for roads, judiciary funding, or new minimum wage just to appear independent? We are not elected to fight the executive; we are partners in governance,” he said.
He added that while the legislature is responsible for making laws, it is the role of the executive to implement them and the judiciary to interpret them. “We’re not overstepping our mandate,” he said.
Citing the example of the previously criticized tax reform bill, Adaramodu pointed out that after undergoing the proper legislative process and passing through third reading, it eventually gained public acceptance, demonstrating the effectiveness of the Assembly’s due diligence.