House of Reps backs Tinubu’s emergency rule in Rivers, suspending Gov Fubara amid escalating political turmoil.
ABUJA, Nigeria — In a dramatic escalation of Nigeria’s political turmoil, the House of Representatives has unequivocally endorsed President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.
The landmark decision, delivered via a voice vote during Thursday’s plenary session, comes with the severe six-month suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and all members of the state assembly—a move aimed at reining in escalating lawlessness and political discord.
Presiding over the session, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas urged members to engage fully with the President’s report, emphasising that extraordinary measures were required to restore order in the beleaguered oil-rich state.
The decision underscores the urgent need to stabilise Rivers State, which has long been marred by conflict and infrastructural sabotage that threaten Nigeria’s economic lifeblood.
In a bid to foster reconciliation, Benue lawmaker and Deputy Spokesman of the House, Philip Agbese, called for the establishment of a national mediation committee.
This body is envisaged to broker lasting peace between Governor Fubara and the contentious Rivers State House of Assembly.
The proposal was met with overwhelming support, signalling a collective desire to resolve the impasse through dialogue, even as harsh measures remain in place.
However, not all were in favour of the permanent nature of the emergency measures.
The Minority Whip voiced concerns, arguing that if peace were eventually restored, the emergency rule should be rescinded before the full six-month term elapses—a sentiment that resonated with many members of the House.
An attempt by Abia lawmaker Obi Agwuncha to disrupt the debate by invoking Section 305 (6b) of the Constitution was swiftly overruled by Speaker Abbas, reinforcing the House’s mandate to act decisively in the nation’s interest.
As Nigeria watches with bated breath, this decisive legislative action could mark a turning point in the country’s ongoing struggle to secure democracy and stabilise a critical region.
