The House of Representatives has rejected the request for the extension of emergency rule in Adamawa, Borno and Yobe States, saying it has not yielded the desired results in the last 18 months.
However, the lawmakers called on the President to always invoke Section 8 of the Armed Forces Act that empowers the Commander-in-Chief to deploy troops to any troubled spots across the country.
President Jonathan had requested both Chambers to extend the emergency rule, which was first proclaimed on May 14, 2013.
Briefing newsmen after the closed session of the House on Thursday, Zakari Mohammed, the Chairman of the House committee on Media and Public Affairs, said the House adopted the motion moved by Hon. Leo Ogor on the matter.
Zakari stated: “Based on Hon. Leo Ogor’s motion, we have not extended the emergency rule, rather we have asked the President to rely on the Section 8 of the Armed Forces Act which empowers him to deploy the military to troubled spots of the country.
“We relied on that bearing in mind that if we had approved this today, it would have been the fourth in the series.
“You remember emergency rule started in May, 2013 and therefore, we have done three extensions.
“If we had extended today, that would have been fourth in the series and anything you are doing, you should be able to take stock to be able to see whether or not that action you are taking is yielding results.
“We would be doing more good if Mr. President relies on that more because if we are adopting a particular stand and it is not giving us desired result, we should be able to change course.
“And the armed forces are to be empowered to deploy soldiers or members of the armed forces to any troubled point of this country for them to take necessary action.
“So, I think that is what came out from the executive session we had where this issue was looked at closely.
“So, all these are ancillary, that is they are the fortress on which that motion was moved by Hon. Leo Ogor at least for him ( President) to explore constitutional provisions rather than emergency rule.
“Emergency rule is expected to elapse today (Thursday) and if the House is in session, it means that you need just two days before you renew but if you are not in session you can wait for 10 days maximum to be able effect it.”
Meanwhile, it was gathered that members of the opposition All Progressives Congress have collected no fewer than 120 signatures to commence the impeachment process against President Jonathan.
The lawmakers are said to be angry that the Executive is ridiculing the leadership of the House.
It will be recalled that the Inspector General of Police, Suleiman Abba, ordered the withdrawal of the securityaides to the House Speaker, Aminu Tambuwal, sequel to his defection to the APC.
Also, earlier on Thursday, the IGP deployed policemen that locked the Speaker out and tear gassed the Assembly Complex.