The Rivers State House of Assembly has thrown its weight behind President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in the state, pledging full support for the newly appointed Sole Administrator.
In a statement on Tuesday, Speaker of the Assembly, Martins Amaewhule, acknowledged that while the decision was not what lawmakers had hoped for, they would abide by it in the interest of stability.
We assure our constituents that we will abide by this declaration, even though it is not what we prayed for. Mr. President has acted in the best interest of the country, Amaewhule stated.
Amaewhule accused Governor Siminalayi Fubara of being responsible for the crisis that led to the emergency rule, alleging that the governor consistently disobeyed court rulings and obstructed legislative functions.
The condition of our dear Rivers State today is mainly because of the malfeasance of the governor, who serially disobeyed court judgments and obstructed the Rivers State House of Assembly, he said.
He urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with the Sole Administrator, Admiral Ibokette Ibas, a former Chief of Naval Staff, who was appointed by Tinubu to oversee the state’s affairs.
“We urge everyone to remain calm as the Sole Administrator assumes duty. Rest assured that the Assembly will give him all the necessary support to restore order, the Speaker added.
On Tuesday, President Tinubu declared a six-month state of emergency in Rivers State, suspending Governor Fubara, his deputy, Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the state Assembly.
The move came amid ongoing political turmoil in the state, fueled by a bitter power struggle between the governor and lawmakers.
Tinubu stated that the decision was necessary to restore peace and ensure effective governance in the state.
The emergency rule has sparked debates across the country, with supporters arguing it will bring stability, while critics question its implications for democracy in the state.
