In his emphatic response to President Tinubu’s state of emergency declaration, Speaker Martin Amaewhule condemned Governor Fubara’s tyrannical actions, attributing the crisis to his defiance of judicial mandates. Calling for unity and support for the Sole Administrator, Amaewhule emphasised the Assembly’s commitment to the rule of law and restoring democracy in Rivers State.
PORT HARCOURT, Rivers State — In a message that has electrified political circles across Rivers State, the Honourable Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Rt. Martin Chike Amaewhule DSSRS, issued a definitive response to President Tinubu’s recent declaration of a state of emergency.
Speaking from the heart of Port Harcourt on Tuesday, 18 March 2025, Speaker Amaewhule’s address not only defended the constitutional integrity of the legislative arm but also set a tone of measured resolve amid a period of profound national uncertainty.
A Stark Admission of Crisis
Addressed to the constituents and the good people of Rivers State, the Speaker’s message laid bare the reasons behind the prevailing crisis. He did not mince words, attributing the current state of affairs to what he described as the Governor’s “despotic and tyrannical actions”.
According to Amaewhule, it is the Governor’s flagrant disobedience of judicial rulings and constitutional mandates that has precipitated the emergency.
The Speaker underscored that the Governor’s repeated defiance—ranging from obstructing the House’s legislative functions to blatantly disregarding court orders—has left Rivers State in a state of administrative paralysis and constitutional breakdown.
Upholding the Constitution Amid Turmoil
Despite the turbulent backdrop, Speaker Amaewhule stressed that the Assembly remains committed to the rule of law. “We assure you all, our constituents, that we would abide by this declaration,” he declared, referring to the President’s state of emergency proclamation.
In a tone that blended solemn duty with cautious optimism, he urged the citizens to remain calm as the newly appointed Sole Administrator steps in to steer the state towards a return to order.
The Speaker’s message made it abundantly clear that while the emergency was not what the Assembly or the people had envisaged, it was a necessary measure given the gravity of the Governor’s misconduct.
By highlighting the constitutional provisions that underpin the President’s actions, Amaewhule’s statement implicitly reinforced the idea that no public office—no matter how high its station—is above the law.
A Plea for Unity and Support
Central to the Speaker’s communication was a fervent appeal for unity and calm. Recognising the deep divisions that have plagued Rivers State, Amaewhule called on all citizens to extend their full support to the Sole Administrator, who has been tasked with the formidable duty of restoring order and governance in a state marred by years of political instability.
“We expect that you will all give the Sole Administrator the needed support to stir the ship of State during this period of emergency,” he urged, emphasising that the temporary suspension of the Governor and other elected officials was designed to pave the way for a smoother, more accountable administration.
In his address, the Speaker acknowledged the sacrifices of many well-meaning Nigerians who have, over the years, intervened in a bid to resolve the crisis.
He extended his gratitude to these stalwarts, noting that their unwavering support and prayers were instrumental in sustaining hope amid the chaos.
This acknowledgment served as a reminder that the state’s political future rests on the collective will of its people and the enduring principles of democracy.
A Moment of Reckoning
The message from Speaker Amaewhule marks a turning point in the ongoing political saga that has gripped Rivers State. His call for adherence to constitutional mandates and his readiness to work alongside the Sole Administrator resonate deeply with a populace yearning for stability and justice.
The Speaker’s condemnation of the Governor’s actions—as “serial disobedience” of court judgements and a violation of the public trust—further accentuates the gravity of the situation.
Political analysts have observed that this bold response from the legislative arm not only reaffirms the Assembly’s commitment to democratic governance but also sets the stage for potential reforms in state politics.
By standing firm in the face of executive overreach, Speaker Amaewhule and his colleagues are sending a powerful message across Nigeria: that the rule of law is inviolable, and that even the highest offices must be held accountable for their actions.
Looking Ahead: Rebuilding Trust and Governance
As Rivers State navigates this precarious period, the onus is now on the newly installed Sole Administrator to restore a semblance of normalcy. The Assembly, for its part, has pledged its unwavering support, signalling an intent to cooperate fully in efforts to revive democratic processes and rebuild public trust.
The Speaker’s address is a call to arms for a united front against corruption, tyranny, and the erosion of democratic values—a plea that reverberates not just in Rivers State, but throughout the nation.
In these defining moments, the people of Rivers State are reminded that while emergencies may force temporary measures, they cannot extinguish the enduring spirit of democracy.
Speaker Amaewhule’s impassioned message is a beacon of hope—a promise that despite the challenges, the constitutional order will prevail, and the voices of the people will continue to be heard.
Atlantic Post remains committed to providing comprehensive coverage of this developing story, as Rivers State embarks on a journey towards renewed governance, transparency, and the restoration of democratic ideals.
- Additional report from Kalada Jumbo, Atlantic Post National Politics Reporter
