Senator Henry Dickson has expressed strong opposition to President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, calling it unconstitutional.
In a statement posted on his X page on Friday, the former governor of Bayelsa State revealed that he had raised his objections during a closed session of the Senate, arguing that the declaration failed to meet constitutional requirements.
“As I have stated repeatedly, I raised my objections in the closed session regarding how the declaration fell short of constitutional prescriptions, based on my commitment as a democrat sworn to uphold the Nigerian Constitution,” Dickson stated.
The matter was not debated in an open plenary session, but Dickson acknowledged the contributions of senators who shared his concerns. He particularly thanked Senator Aminu Tambuwal for challenging the legality of suspending elected officials in Rivers State.
“I want to thank Senator Aminu Waziri Tambuwal for his strong support in highlighting the unconstitutionality of the declaration, especially concerning the suspension of elected officials in Rivers State,” Dickson said.
Despite the majority of senators supporting the emergency proclamation and the lack of a formal debate in plenary, Dickson reaffirmed his opposition. He noted ongoing efforts to amend the declaration but maintained that the primary issue of constitutionality had yet to be addressed.
“Although I acknowledge the efforts being made by the leadership and the President to modify the terms of the declaration and establish a mechanism for oversight, this does not change the core issue of constitutionality,” he wrote.
Dickson also criticized Senate President for attempting to silence him and misrepresent his statements, referencing a viral video of their exchange before the session moved behind closed doors. He expressed gratitude to those who praised his composure during what he described as an “unexpected attempt at intimidation” and emphasized that “the Senate is a meeting of equals, and everyone should be respected, just as we respect the Chair.”
The senator further argued that senators should not require permission from the Senate President to voice their opinions on national matters. He promised to address his concerns with the Senate President formally to avoid such situations in the future.
Dickson assured his constituents and Nigerians that he remains dedicated to defending democratic principles.
