The Nigerian Senate and House of Representatives have both approved President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.
This decision grants the President the authority to implement emergency measures while allowing for a review within six months.
The House of Representatives had earlier supported Tinubu’s proclamation through a voice vote, two days after the declaration, News About Nigeria reports.
During a plenary session led by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, 240 lawmakers participated in the decision.
The Senate later followed suit, invoking its constitutional powers under the amended 1999 Constitution.
As part of the emergency measures, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly have been suspended for six months.
In their place, Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) has been appointed as the sole administrator to oversee the state’s affairs.
The move has sparked criticism from legal experts, opposition leaders, and some governors, who argued that it undermines democracy.
To address the crisis, both chambers of the National Assembly have agreed to set up a mediation committee comprising respected Nigerians.
This committee will work towards resolving the political tension in the oil-rich state.
Additionally, lawmakers stressed that, according to the Constitution, the National Assembly has the authority to legislate for Rivers State in the absence of a functioning state assembly.
They opposed the idea of the Federal Executive Council taking over this responsibility.
Despite widespread opposition, the Federal Government has stood by Tinubu’s decision, insisting that the emergency rule is necessary to restore peace and stability in the state.
