Senate was divided along party lines on Wednesday over a point of order to debate on alleged electoral malpractices brought by Senator Dino Melaye representing Kogi West Senatorial District.
Dino had on the point of order sought the leave of the red Chambers to bring a motion to the effect that election held on 23rd February and 9th March was militarised
The lawmaker wanted the motion discussed for posterity sake, saying that it would be cowardice for Senators to close eyes to brazen electoral malpractices.
“Mr. President, distinguished colleagues I rise this morning through Order 42 as a true representative of the people to bring to attention of the Senate on elections held on 23rd February and 9th March, 2019.”
“I want to say, the elections were militarized and I want the Senate to discuss this matter for posterity sake.”
“If this matter is discussed and reasons for military operation is discovered, Mr. President can be properly advised. ”
“Please permit me, Mr. Senate President, to bring a full motion on another legislative day. ”
Immediately, the matter was put to voice votes by the Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki, there was thunderous” nay”, suggesting that the chamber wouldn’t want elections debated particularly the APC lawmakers.
Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki, however, argued that the motion having come through Order 42 needed one fifth to be sustained, hence, he ordered Dino to bring the motion on the next legislative day.
Effort by the Senate leader, Ahmed Lawan and Senator Jibrin Barau to turn down the motion did not yield results as the Senate President insisted that the motion was in accordance with the rules of the Senate.
