Senator Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa West has explained why he walked out of the Senate chamber during discussions on the emergency rule imposed on Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu.
According to report, he cited concerns over the constitutionality of the decision.
The Senate, after a closed-door session, approved the president's declaration of emergency under Section 305 (2) of the 1999 Constitution.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced that the proclamation was subject to review or termination by the president within six months.
Additionally, lawmakers invoked Section 11(4), forming a joint ad hoc committee to oversee governance in Rivers State during the emergency period.
Dickson, in a Facebook post, expressed dissatisfaction with the closed-door deliberation, arguing for an open debate to ensure transparency.
He maintained that the emergency rule fell short of constitutional standards.
He appreciated Senator Aminu Tambuwal's opposition, particularly against suspending elected officials in Rivers State.
"The Senate did not hold an open debate, but it was robust behind closed doors.
I commend Senator Tambuwal for his stance against the unconstitutionality of suspending elected officials," Dickson said.
Despite opposition from some senators, the majority approved the proclamation. Dickson chose to leave the chamber before the Senate President reported the outcome.
He asserted that efforts to modify the declaration failed to address its fundamental constitutional issues.
He also accused the Senate President of unfairly trying to censor his views.
"The Senate is a meeting of equals; no senator needs permission to express an opinion on national matters," he argued.
Dickson reaffirmed his commitment to democracy and called on Nigerians to defend democratic principles, emphasizing solidarity with the people of Rivers State.
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