Senator Kingibe Slams National Assembly's Use Of Voice Votes For Rivers State Emergency

FCT Senator Stands Firm Against Voice Votes for Emergency Ratification

Naija News highlights a strong reaction from Senator Ireti Kingibe, representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), who has spoken out against the National Assembly's decision to use voice votes for ratifying the state of emergency in Rivers State. In a bold move, both the Senate and the House of Representatives endorsed President Bola Tinubu’s emergency declaration using this method on Thursday. But is this really how such critical decisions should be made?

The federal lawmakers also upheld the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and members of the House of Assembly. Now, Senator Kingibe is making her voice heard, arguing that decisions of this magnitude demand more than just a quick voice vote. In a detailed statement on Friday, she emphasized that these issues require the two-thirds majority vote mandated by the Constitution—not a simple voice vote.

Kingibe's Stance: Why Voice Votes Fall Short

In her statement, Senator Kingibe made it crystal clear: “As the Senator representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and a member of the Labour Party, I firmly oppose the use of voice voting for decisions as serious as declaring a state of emergency. The Nigerian Constitution explicitly states that a state of emergency proclaimed by the President must be ratified by a two-thirds majority of all members of each House of the National Assembly. A voice vote simply doesn’t cut it when we’re talking about such significant constitutional matters.”

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She continued, “Section 305(2) & (6)(b) of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria (as amended) clearly states that an emergency proclamation must receive approval from at least two-thirds of all members of both the Senate and the House of Representatives. A voice vote, where members simply shout ‘Aye’ or ‘Nay,’ cannot accurately measure the required two-thirds majority. We need a recorded vote—whether through division voting, roll call, or electronic voting—to ensure we meet constitutional standards.”

Why a Recorded Vote Matters

Senator Kingibe further explained, “When a decision as weighty as declaring a state of emergency is on the table, we can’t afford to rely on something as imprecise as a voice vote. A formal recorded vote is essential to confirm the exact number of lawmakers in support. The Senate Standing Orders and House Rules generally mandate a roll call or electronic voting system for decisions of this magnitude. This isn’t just about following procedure; it’s about ensuring transparency and accountability.”

She added, “The National Assembly plays a crucial role as the custodian of the laws of the land. They must safeguard the Constitution and ensure the rule of law prevails. Their job is to carefully review and, if necessary, reject the President’s decisions when they don’t align with the law. Without a roll call or electronic voting, the people haven’t truly spoken. And if the people haven’t spoken, how can we hold lawmakers accountable for such monumental decisions?”

In conclusion, Senator Kingibe emphasized, “The people must hold their representatives accountable. We can’t let decisions of this importance slip through the cracks because of shortcuts like voice votes. The Constitution demands more, and so should we.”