Why We Support Extension Of Emergency Rule In Restless Northern States – Lawmakers

Yesterday, a number of lawmakers expressed their support for the six-month emergency rule extension imposed on the three Northern states, Adamawa, Borno, and Yobe. They say the prevailing situation in the North-East zone of Nigeria has justified such measure.

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It will be recalled that on November 7, the Senate approved the extension of the rule, after President Jonathan has sought the approval of the National Assembly. The initial six-months emergency was declared on May 14.

According to Prof. Itse Sagay, a constitutional lawyer, SAN, the emergency rule in the said states has positively affected the fight against Boko Haram insurgents. Not only it has reduced their number greatly, but also resulted in reducing the number of their attacks, and, subsequently, lessening the danger to which innocent civilians have been exposed to.

The task of eradication of the deadly terrorist activities is not over yet, Mr. Sagay says, so additional time is needed to complete the effective job.

Mr. Onyekachi Ubani, the Chairman, Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, Ikeja Branch, maintains President Jonathan acted constitutionally by sending the request to continue safety measures to the National Assembly.

Stressing that the optimal result has not yet been achieved, the lawmaker urged security agencies to intensify their efforts toward bringing the insurgency to a quick end.

Mr. Fred Agbaje, a human rights lawyer, also stressed that the Federal Government’s constitutional duty is to protect the lives and property of its citizens.

“If the extension is for another five years and it will bring sanity to these areas, so be it,” he says. “I would have been disappointed if the National Assembly had not granted the request. It would have meant that they are in support of the wanton killings being perpetrated in these states by these insurgents.”

Mr. Bamidele Aturu also supports the desicion, as there seems to be no other choice.