President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State has received the crucial backing of the Senate, solidifying his authority to implement emergency measures in the troubled oil-rich region.
The Upper Chamber invoked its constitutional powers under the amended 1999 Constitution to approve the proclamation, which came just two days after the House of Representatives gave its own endorsement.
The Senate’s approval mandates a review of the situation within six months, granting President Tinubu the power to enforce emergency protocols in the interim.
In line with constitutional provisions, the National Assembly has also established a joint committee comprising members from both the Senate and the House of Representatives. This committee will be tasked with overseeing the administration of affairs in Rivers State throughout the emergency period, ensuring accountability and adherence to the stipulated regulations.
Further demonstrating the National Assembly’s commitment to resolving the underlying political turmoil in Rivers State, the Senate also resolved to form a mediation committee composed of eminent Nigerian personalities. This committee will be instrumental in facilitating dialogue and seeking a peaceful resolution to the ongoing crisis that prompted the state of emergency.
The House of Representatives had earlier signaled its support for President Tinubu’s decision in a voice vote presided over by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas.
During their deliberations, the House made key amendments, including the establishment of a committee of eminent Nigerians for mediation, echoing the Senate’s move. Notably, the House also clarified that the National Assembly, rather than the Federal Executive Council, holds the constitutional power to legislate for a state where its assembly is unable to function.
President Tinubu’s initial declaration of a state of emergency on Tuesday saw the suspension of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for a period of six months. The President also appointed a sole administrator, retired Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas, to take charge of the state’s affairs. This sweeping action has ignited a firestorm of criticism from legal experts, governors, and prominent figures such as Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, who have called for its immediate reversal.
Despite the widespread condemnation, the Federal Government has staunchly defended President Tinubu’s decision, asserting that it was a necessary step to restore peace and order in the strategically important Rivers State.
With the endorsement of both chambers of the National Assembly, the stage is now set for the implementation of emergency measures under intense scrutiny from the newly formed oversight and mediation committees.
The coming weeks and months will be critical in determining the impact of this unprecedented intervention on the political landscape of Rivers State.
