Rivers State Emergency Declaration Approved by National Assembly
The National Assembly has unanimously endorsed the state of emergency declared in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu earlier this week.
The resolution was passed in separate sessions of both the Senate and House of Representatives, focusing on the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu, and the state Assembly members. Despite opposition from some leaders, the lawmakers backed the President’s drastic measure.
Governor Fubara broke his silence on Thursday, refuting allegations from the Federal Government that he was responsible for attacks on oil installations by militant groups. He also dismissed claims that he failed to rebuild the demolished state House of Assembly, insisting that the decision was made after receiving professional advice due to integrity concerns regarding the structure.
In a statement from his office, Fubara emphasized the need to correct misinformation surrounding the escalation of violence in the state, attributing recent attacks to incendiary comments made by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. He expressed that Wike’s remarks were offensive to the Ijaw nation, provoking unrest in the region.
Meanwhile, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ette Ibas, newly appointed as the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, has taken office and vowed to maintain law and order. In his inaugural address, Ibas pledged a zero-tolerance policy towards violence and further attacks on critical national infrastructure.
Ibas commented on the pressing need for stability in the state, stating that the political discord has severely impacted governance and the social fabric of the community. Acknowledging this challenge, he called for collective efforts from all stakeholders to restore peace.
The emergency declaration, according to the President, is essential for stabilizing the volatile situation in Rivers State and protecting national assets. The National Assembly has called for the establishment of an ad hoc committee to mediate between conflicting parties within the state.
In a show of support for the emergency declaration, the Senate and House dismissed objections from opposition leaders, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who had urged lawmakers to resist approval of the emergency measure.
The South-South Governors’ Forum has urged the reversal of the emergency, stating that the situation in Rivers State can be resolved through dialogue rather than extreme measures. However, some political figures have praised the emergency rule as a necessary step towards restoring order amidst rising tensions.
Elders from Rivers State have expressed concern for the safety of Governor Fubara, citing his absence since the declaration and claiming that his life may be in danger.
Civil society organizations have criticized the Attorney General’s comments linking Fubara to security threats, asserting that the governor has maintained peace despite provocations. They have called for transparency and evidence to support claims against Fubara.
As the political landscape evolves, the focus remains on restoring order and addressing the underlying issues in Rivers State to ensure a peaceful and stable future for its residents.
