The House of Representatives has approved the State of Emergency declared in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu. In a voice vote, 243 members endorsed the motion but made key amendments.
Deputy House Spokesperson Phillip Agbese proposed the creation of a National Peace and Reconciliation Committee to mediate the ongoing political crisis. Additionally, the House approved the takeover of the Rivers State House of Assembly’s legislative duties under Section 11(4) of the Constitution.
Another amendment urged President Tinubu to review the emergency status within the six-month period he initially set.
President Tinubu declared the emergency on Tuesday, suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and state lawmakers for six months. He also appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas as the state’s sole administrator.
The declaration has sparked mixed reactions across Nigeria, with some arguing it aligns with constitutional provisions, while others see it as unconstitutional.
