President Bola Tinubu has praised the National Assembly for approving his declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.
On Tuesday, Tinubu suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all members of the State House of Assembly. He also appointed retired Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, as the state’s sole administrator.
Both the Senate and the House of Representatives ratified the emergency rule on Thursday, following a debate on the matter.
In response through a statement by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu described the approval as a necessary step to restore order after prolonged political instability that disrupted governance and posed risks to national economic security.
The President specifically commended Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, and other lawmakers for putting national interest above politics.
He also acknowledged that lawmakers carefully examined security reports before concluding that urgent intervention was needed.
“The crisis in Rivers State had reached a dangerous tipping point, threatening the security of vital oil and gas infrastructure and undermining the national economy,” Tinubu said.
“As I stated in my national address on March 18, the near-total collapse of governance, risks to federal economic assets, and the potential for widespread violence left no room for hesitation. This emergency measure is necessary to protect lives, secure critical infrastructure, and restore democratic governance.”
Tinubu assured Nigerians that the six-month emergency rule would provide a window for the newly appointed Sole Administrator to stabilize the state and foster dialogue among political stakeholders.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to working closely with the National Assembly to promote peace, security, and economic progress nationwide.
“Today’s decision shows what we can achieve when unity and patriotism guide our actions. We remain committed to building a safer, stronger Nigeria—where every citizen’s rights and opportunities are protected,” he said.
The President also called on all stakeholders to support efforts to restore peace and stability in Rivers State.