“I Spoke and Voted Against It”: Senator Dickson Reveals Opposition to Rivers Emergency Proclamation

Senator Seriake Dickson, representing Bayelsa West Senatorial District, has clarified his stance on the recent deliberations regarding the state of emergency in Rivers State. In a statement, Dickson revealed that he spoke and voted against the proclamation during the Senate’s closed session, a position he shared with a few other senators, including Senator Aminu Tambuwal.

Dickson explained that he left the plenary before the Senate President was directed to report the outcome of the discussions, as he did not want to be reported. He added that Senators Tambuwal, Abaribe, and several others also left the session early.

The senator emphasized his opposition to the declaration, noting that he had consistently voiced his concerns and was supported by Tambuwal and other senators who were not given the opportunity to speak. Dickson expressed gratitude to those who aligned with his viewpoint, acknowledging the efforts made to modify the declaration in response to the concerns raised in recent days.

His remarks shed light on the division within the Senate regarding the proposed state of emergency in Rivers State, as well as the behind-the-scenes discussions that shaped the final decision. Dickson’s statement underscores the complexity of the debate and the range of opinions among lawmakers on the matter.