Senator Yemi Adaramodu, spokesperson for the Nigerian Senate, has disclosed that the National Assembly approved President Bola Tinubu’s request to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State but introduced key modifications to the initial proposal.
Speaking during an interview in Ilawe-Ekiti, Adaramodu explained that while the emergency declaration received legislative backing, the Senate amended certain elements, including shortening the originally proposed six-month timeline.
According to The Sun, part of the Senate’s revisions include placing the sole administrator under continued legislative oversight and creating a mediation body to address ongoing political disputes and promote stability in the state.
Adaramodu noted that the emergency measure was not a blanket approval and emphasized that such declarations must comply with constitutional provisions, requiring both debate and endorsement by the National Assembly. He added that issues of national security and emergency governance are typically handled in closed-door sessions due to their sensitive nature.
The Senate’s interventions, he said, are intended to uphold transparency and accountability while ensuring that the temporary administration in Rivers operates within democratic boundaries.
Addressing public criticism of the legislature, Adaramodu rejected claims that the 10th National Assembly functions merely as a rubber stamp for the executive. He maintained that the lawmakers’ role is not to obstruct government initiatives but to collaborate in pursuit of national development.
He defended past legislative decisions, including major economic reforms and budget approvals, noting they were based on thorough analysis and consultations with relevant stakeholders.
Adaramodu concluded by reiterating the Assembly’s constitutional responsibility to provide effective oversight, rather than interfere in executive affairs, while remaining committed to Nigeria’s democratic progress.
