President Bola Ahmed Tinubu praised the National Assembly for ratifying a State of Emergency in Rivers State, amid a severe political crisis affecting governance and the economy. He lauded lawmakers for prioritising national welfare over partisanship, emphasising the urgency for intervention to restore stability and drive economic resilience in the crucial oil hub.
ABUJA, Nigeria – In a resounding display of national unity, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has hailed the National Assembly for its decisive, patriotic ratification of the State of Emergency in Rivers State—a measure aimed at rescuing the state from a near-catastrophic political crisis that has imperilled both governance and Nigeria’s economic lifeblood for over 15 months.
At the heart of this dramatic intervention is the stark reality that Rivers State, a pivotal hub for Nigeria’s oil and gas operations, had descended into chaos.
With the collapse of effective governance and a mounting threat to critical federal economic assets, the emergency measure was deemed not only necessary but urgent.
President Tinubu, in his address on March 20, 2025, stressed that the state’s dire condition, characterised by widespread lawlessness and systemic breakdowns, had left no alternative but to take bold, sweeping action.
The President’s commendation was directed at the exemplary leadership exhibited by key figures in the National Assembly, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abbas.
These stalwart leaders, alongside their colleagues, were credited with setting aside partisan differences to prioritise the welfare and security of the Rivers State populace.
By swiftly reviewing classified security briefings and endorsing the emergency proclamation, the lawmakers have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to protecting the nation’s vital infrastructure and restoring democratic accountability.
“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,” President Tinubu remarked.
His words reflect the gravity of the situation—a situation where the near-total collapse of governance and the risk of escalating violence left the nation with no room for hesitation.
The six-month emergency period, as outlined in the proclamation, is designed to empower a newly-appointed Sole Administrator with sweeping powers to stabilise the state.
This administrator’s mandate includes addressing systemic failures, curbing the rampant lawlessness that has plagued the state, and fostering dialogue among the myriad conflicting parties that have long held Rivers State hostage.
Such decisive action is seen by many political analysts as a lifeline—one that could potentially restore peace, secure critical infrastructure, and rekindle economic resilience in an area that has long been the backbone of Nigeria’s oil revenue.
President Tinubu’s remarks underscored a broader vision for Nigeria—a vision in which unity, patriotism, and collective action pave the way for a safer, more prosperous future.
“Today’s decision exemplifies what our nation can achieve when unity of purpose and patriotism guide the actions of leaders. We remain steadfast in pursuing a safer, more prosperous Nigeria—one where every citizen’s potential is safeguarded and nurtured,” he affirmed.
As the nation rallies behind this historic move, all eyes now turn to the implementation of the emergency rule.
The coming months will be critical as efforts intensify to not only stabilise Rivers State but also to ensure that the far-reaching impact of this intervention paves the way for enduring peace and national development.
In these turbulent times, the resolute stand of the National Assembly, backed by the President’s visionary leadership, offers a glimmer of hope for a nation on the brink of transformation.
