By Gwurld4026 
Kwankwaso Critiques National Assembly Amid Rivers Crisis
Former Kano State Governor and 2023 presidential candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has criticized the National Assembly for endorsing President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State. He described the 10th Assembly as more of a “rubber stamp” than any of its predecessors, expressing concern over its failure to check executive overreach.
Kwankwaso argued that the President’s action was unconstitutional and could lead to anarchy. He emphasized that the legislature’s responsibility is to hold the executive accountable, not to always align with its decisions. He also questioned the transparency of the National Assembly’s approval process, criticizing the use of a voice vote for such a critical issue as undermining due process.
The former governor further urged the judiciary to maintain its independence and deliver judgments free from external influence, emphasizing the importance of upholding democratic principles.
President Tinubu declared the state of emergency in Rivers State, citing recent pipeline vandalism and political instability within the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) that threatened oil production. This led to the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and all state lawmakers for six months, with a retired vice admiral appointed as caretaker.
The National Assembly’s approval of this emergency rule has sparked mixed reactions, with critics like Kwankwaso condemning the process and questioning the legislature’s independence.