Jonathan’s Plea For Emergency Extension Granted

The House of Representatives has approved the request by President Goodluck Jonathan for an extension of emergency rule in the three north eastern states of Borno, Yobe and Adamawa.

The approval was granted after over two-hour closed door briefing by security chiefs and hours of deliberations by lawmakers.

Although some opposition lawmakers argued that the extension of emergency rule is not necessary in those states, others say it is necessary to give a legal backing to domesticate international treaties in the fight against terror in Nigeria with the force of law.

Addressing a news conference after the proceedings, spokesman of the House, Representative Zakari Mohammed, said the constitution is clear on what needs to be done in times such as this.

The lawmakers may have given the extension required by the executive after what they say was useful insight given by the service chiefs on the security situation in the affected areas.

They also realize the need to follow up the efforts put in by the military to see to the end of terrorism in these states.