The House of Representatives in Nigeria has overwhelmingly approved President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, solidifying his decision to suspend Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for six months.
During a plenary session on Thursday, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas read the president’s letter seeking the National Assembly’s approval for the emergency rule. When put to a voice vote, the lawmakers decisively supported the motion, ensuring Tinubu’s directive stands.
The emergency declaration follows months of intense political turmoil in Rivers, which has seen conflicts between the governor and the state assembly. The crisis escalated, prompting Tinubu’s intervention on Tuesday, suspending the state’s key political officeholders and taking direct federal control of governance.
With 240 lawmakers present, the House met the quorum required for such a crucial decision. The Senate is expected to deliberate on the matter soon.
This move has sparked significant debate, with opposition leaders, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and ex-Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, rejecting the emergency rule and calling it unconstitutional.
More details to follow.
