The Nigerian Senate has officially approved and adopted President Bola Tinubu’s proclamation declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State and suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara for six months.
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Senate President Godswill Akpabio read the president’s letter during Thursday’s plenary session before lawmakers held a closed-door meeting. Following deliberations, the request was put to a voice vote, with overwhelming support from senators.
Announcing the decision, Akpabio stated that the Senate had acted under its constitutional authority, citing Section 305(2) of the 1999 Constitution. He expressed optimism that the emergency measure would help restore peace and stability in the state.
In addition, the Senate urged President Tinubu to form an ad hoc committee of respected Nigerians to mediate between the factions fueling the crisis.
The Senate’s approval follows Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers and the suspension of Governor Fubara. In a televised address, the president cited prolonged political instability and governance paralysis as reasons for the intervention. He expressed concern over the leadership crisis and security threats in the state, pointing to the collapse of the House of Assembly and recent attacks on vital infrastructure.
As part of the emergency measures, Tinubu appointed Ibok-Ete Ibas as the sole administrator to oversee the state’s affairs.
