SENATE SHOWDOWN: DICKSON SPEAKS OUT AGAINST STATE OF EMERGENCY IN RIVERS STATE
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SENATE SHOWDOWN: DICKSON SPEAKS OUT AGAINST STATE OF EMERGENCY IN RIVERS STATE
In a dramatic turn of events, Senator Seriake Dickson took a bold stance against the President's proclamation of a state of emergency in Rivers State. The senator, who represents Bayelsa West, expressed his strong objections to the declaration during a closed session of the Senate.
According to Dickson, the proclamation fell short of constitutional prescription, and he vehemently opposed the suspension of elected officials in Rivers State. Despite his efforts, the majority of senators supported the proclamation, with no room for an open debate at plenary.
Dickson, a staunch democrat, emphasized his commitment to upholding the Nigerian constitution. He thanked Senator Aminu Waziri Tambuwal for his strong support in opposing the declaration, particularly the aspect dealing with the suspension of elected officials.
The senator revealed that he, along with Senators Tambuwal, Abaribe, and others, left the plenary before the Senate President reported the outcome, as they did not want to be present while something they opposed was being reported.
Dickson clarified that he spoke and voted against the proclamation in the closed session, supported by Tambuwal and a few other senators. He expressed gratitude to all senators who shared his view, acknowledging the efforts made to modify the declaration.
Despite the outcome, Dickson emphasized the importance of democratic principles, stating that "the minority will have their say while the majority their way." He expressed his desire for a more robust and open debate, allowing all views and opinions to be openly canvassed.
In a related development, a viral video showed an exchange between Dickson and the Senate President before the closed session. Dickson described the Senate President's actions as unfair, attempting to censor his freedom of expression and misrepresenting his statements.
The senator asserted that he has gone beyond the stage of being intimidated and that the Senate is a meeting of equals, where everyone should be respected. Dickson stated his intention to meet with the Senate President to express his displeasure and prevent a recurrence.
In a message to his constituents, Nigerians, and people of goodwill, Dickson urged them not to be dismayed by the direction democracy appears to have taken. He emphasized the need for participatory democracy and called on people to come together to promote it.
The senator's thoughts and prayers are with the people of Rivers State, who are directly affected by the state of emergency. As the situation unfolds, Dickson's stance serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding democratic principles and protecting the rights of citizens.
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