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• As sole administrator assumes duty, meets Perm Secs, others
From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja and Tony John, Port Harcourt
President Bola Tinubu has praised the National Assembly for its swift and patriotic approval of the State of Emergency in Rivers State. He said the move is crucial in restoring stability to the state, which has been embroiled in a prolonged political crisis that has crippled governance and threatened national economic security for over 15 months.
He described the National Assembly’s endorsement as a decisive step towards addressing the severe governance breakdown and security threats in Rivers State. The emergency declaration, which included the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the state legislature, aims to restore order and ensure the continuation of essential services in the state.
The President’s commendation comes after both the House of Representatives and the Senate approved the emergency rule, citing the need to address escalating political tensions and security challenges in the region.
In a statement issued by Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President specifically commended the National Assembly’s leadership—Senate President Godswill Akpabio, House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, other principal officers and members—for prioritising the security and welfare of Rivers State people above partisan interests and other considerations.
He further acknowledged the lawmakers’ diligent review of classified security briefings, underscoring the urgent need for intervention to prevent further escalation.
“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,” he remarked.
“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.”
President Tinubu affirmed that the six-month emergency will empower the newly-appointed Sole Administrator to stabilise Rivers State, address systemic breakdowns, and facilitate dialogue among conflicting parties.
President Tinubu also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to deepening collaboration with the National Assembly to advance peace, economic resilience, and equitable development across Nigeria.
“Today’s decision exemplifies what our nation can achieve when unity of purpose and patriotism guide the action of leaders. We remain steadfast in pursuing a safer, more prosperous Nigeria—one where every citizen’s potential is safeguarded and nurtured,” he said.
The President thanked all Nigerians for their understanding and urged all stakeholders to support the restoration of peace in Rivers State.
Meanwhile, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd), yesterday, assumed duty and met with the Head of Service, Permanent Secretaries and service Chiefs and other relevant authorities at the State Executive Council chamber, Government House, Port Harcourt.
Briefing journalists shortly after his maiden meeting with the personalities in attendance, the sole administrator commended the media for their role in the state so far.
Vice Admiral Ibas said with the briefings he hoped to receive from the relevant authorities, they would help in addressing the current political situation in Rivers State.
“I believe it is only proper for me thereafter to have something to say to you all. And I assure that, perhaps, later this evening, I would be in the right position to address you on the issues that you might raise now.”
The sole administrator expressed optimism that Port Harcourt, the state capital, will bounce back to its normal position.
“Port Harcourt is my city. Everything appears calm and I know the situation is there. But, we just want Port Harcourt to get back to where it has always been.”
