The political landscape of Rivers State has ignited a national firestorm, with President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency, suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara and key state officials. Africa Update reports that this decision has been met with both fervent support and fierce opposition. Now, the House of Representatives has added its voice to the debate, voting in favor of the President’s controversial decision. Â
Two days after Tinubu’s dramatic move, citing escalating security threats and gubernatorial inaction, the House, under Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, convened in Abuja. A letter from the President prompted a lively plenary session, attended by 240 lawmakers. A resounding voice vote echoed through the chambers, signaling the House’s endorsement of the emergency declaration.
However, the House’s support came with crucial amendments, demonstrating a nuanced approach. They proposed the establishment of a committee of eminent Nigerians to mediate the crisis, aiming to foster dialogue and reconciliation during the six-month emergency period. Furthermore, the House clarified the constitutional role of the National Assembly, asserting its authority to legislate for the state should the Rivers State House of Assembly remain incapacitated, directly challenging the President’s initial suggestion of Federal Executive Council (FEC) intervention.
Recognising the fluidity of the situation, the House also stipulated that the state of emergency could be reviewed and terminated before the six-month deadline, contingent on demonstrable progress towards peace and stability.
President Tinubu’s decision, which included the appointment of Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) as Sole Administrator, has drawn sharp criticism from opposition leaders, legal experts, and prominent figures such as Peter Obi, Atiku Abubakar, Rotimi Amaechi, and Nasir El-Rufai. They argue that the move undermines democratic principles and sets a dangerous precedent.
The Federal Government, however, remains steadfast in its defence of the President’s actions, emphasizing the urgency of the security situation and the need for decisive intervention. As Rivers State navigates this turbulent period, the nation watches, grappling with the implications for democracy and governance in Nigeria.
