FCT Senator Slams National Assembly’s Voice Vote for Rivers Emergency Approval

The Senator condemned the use of Voice Vote on a national issue of grave importance.

She stated that bypassing rule of law in national decision could weaken democratic structures.

A Senator of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, has criticized the method of approval adopted by the National Assembly in the Rivers state of emergency declaration.

The senator, Mrs Ireti Kingibe of the Labour Party affiliation has unequivocally rejected the use of voice vote by the House in backing up President Tinubu’s declaration of state of emergency. Senator Ireti said it is unconstitutionally and unacceptable.

In her argument, the senator stated that a matter of such national attention doesn’t deserve the “Aye” and “Nay” decision pattern.

she noted that such matter ought to be recorded and documented in line with 1999 Constitution (Section 305) that stipulates a two-thirds majority for approval.

Recall that the House of Assembly’s executive session debate on the declaration of state of Emergency was done without a proper roll call or electronic vote.

READ ALSO: National Assembly Confirms Tinubu Consulted Leaders Before Rivers Emergency, Akpabio, Others Supported

The “Aye” and “Nay” method robbed Nigerians the opportunity of a watching a live debate on the matter that required due process. The whole approval method seems like a rushed pre-concluded affair that just needed the presence of the House members and not necessarily their opinions.

Senator Ireti said it is a dangerous precedent that bypassed due process and could weaken democratic structures.

“A voice vote cannot determine a two-thirds majority. Without a recorded vote, the people have not spoken!” She stated.

Senator Ireti criticized the actions of follow senators on the issue and further reminded them that their sole purpose is to vet and thoroughly scrutinize the decisions of the president for the betterment of the country and not for their own gain.

She also called on the citizens to demand accountability from their leaders, insisting that politically elected leaders ought to be transparent in dealings.