President Bola Tinubu is struggling to secure a two-thirds majority in the National Assembly to approve his declaration of emergency rule in Rivers State.

The president declared a state of emergency in the state on Tuesday, citing a protracted political crisis, and suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and all house assembly members for six months.

To approve the emergency rule, Tinubu needs at least 240 votes in the House of Representatives and 73 in the Senate.

However, sources in the National Assembly reveal that the president’s supporters are finding it challenging to gather the required numbers. The Senate deferred the motion to Thursday due to insufficient numbers.

Many lawmakers remain unconvinced about the necessity and legality of Tinubu’s action, which they believe could set a dangerous precedent.

The constitution does not explicitly provide for the suspension of an elected governor or the appointment of an administrator.

Furthermore, the National Assembly is facing a quorum challenge, as many members are out of the country observing the lesser hajj and Ramadan fasting. The quorum for the Senate is 37, while that of the House is 120.

If Tinubu fails to secure the required majority by Thursday, he will be forced to revoke his proclamation, effectively restoring Fubara and his administration.