President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended the National Assembly for ratifying the state of emergency proclamation in Rivers State, describing the move as a patriotic step towards restoring stability and safeguarding the national economy.
In a statement issued on Thursday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the president praised the leadership of the Senate and House of Representatives for prioritising the security and welfare of Rivers State over partisan interests.
He singled out Senate President Godswill Akpabio, House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, principal officers, and members for their dedication to national unity.
“The crisis in Rivers State was at a perilous tipping point, threatening the security of vital oil and gas installations and undermining the national economy and the significant progress we have made in the reforms initiated since our administration commenced in May 2023,” Tinubu said.
He noted that the National Assembly’s decision came after a thorough review of classified security briefings, which highlighted the urgent need to intervene to avert further escalation.
“As I detailed in my address to the nation on 18 March, the near-total collapse of governance, threats to federal economic assets, and the risk of widespread violence left no room for hesitation. This emergency measure is a lifeline to safeguard livelihoods, secure critical infrastructure, and restore democratic accountability,” the president added.
President Tinubu, in a nationwide emergency broadcast on Tuesday, declared a state of emergency in Rivers State while also suspending the Governor, Sim Fubara, his deputy, and the members of the State House of Assembly for six months.
Tinubu also appointed a sole administrator to oversee the affairs of the state for the next six months.
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“In the meantime, I hereby nominate Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd) as Administrator to take charge of the affairs of the state in the interest of the good people of Rivers State.”
The declaration comes just hours after an explosion was reported at an oil facility in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area.
The six-month state of emergency empowers the newly appointed sole administrator to stabilise Rivers State, address systemic breakdowns, and facilitate dialogue among conflicting parties.
The president reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to working closely with the National Assembly to foster peace, economic resilience, and development across Nigeria.
“Today’s decision exemplifies what our nation can achieve when unity of purpose and patriotism guide the actions of leaders. We remain steadfast in pursuing a safer, more prosperous Nigeria—one where every citizen’s potential is safeguarded and nurtured,” he said.
He also thanked Nigerians for their understanding and urged stakeholders to support efforts to restore peace in Rivers State.
