The Senator Ireti Kingibe ( LP, FCT) has faulted the voice vote method used by the Senate to approve the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu.
In a statement made available to journalists in Abuja on Friday, Kingibe argued that such a critical constitutional decision requires a more transparent and precise process, as outlined in the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
Kingibe said, “I strongly oppose the use of voice voting for such critical, vital, and constitutional issues. The Nigerian Constitution explicitly mandates that a state of emergency proclaimed by the President must be ratified by a two-thirds majority of all the members of each House of the National Assembly.”
Citing Section 305(2) & (6)(b) of the Constitution, the FCT Senator emphasised that only a formal, recorded vote — such as a division vote, roll call, or electronic voting — can accurately determine if the required two-thirds threshold has been met.
She said, “A voice vote, where members express agreement by saying ‘Aye’ or ‘Nay,’ cannot precisely measure the required two-thirds majority.”
According to her, there is the possibility that the voice vote may lead to constitutional breach in the voting process.
She added that both the Senate Standing Orders and House of Representatives Rules recommended a more transparent voting process for matters of national importance, especially those that directly impact the civil liberties of citizens and governance in affected regions.
Kingibe said, “The National Assembly must jealously guard its constitutional role and ensure that the rule of law prevails. We must remember our primary duty — to oversee and guide the President’s decisions, especially when his choices must be constitutionally confirmed.
But Kingibe reminded her colleagues of their responsibility to Nigerians, saying that: “Without a roll call or electronic voting, the people haven’t truly spoken. Therefore, they cannot and should not bear responsibility for the President’s decision in a matter of this magnitude. The people must hold their representatives accountable!”
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