The Rivers State House of Assembly has thrown its weight behind President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in the state.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Speaker Martin Amaewhule confirmed the Assembly’s support for the president’s decision, acknowledging that while it was not their preferred outcome, they would abide by it.
“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.
The Speaker placed responsibility for the state’s crisis on Governor Siminalayi Fubara, accusing him of disregarding judicial rulings and failing to uphold constitutional governance.
“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 remarked.
Amaewhule urged residents to remain composed and cooperate with the Sole Administrator appointed by the president 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,” he assured.
Expressing gratitude, the Speaker acknowledged the patience, prayers, and support of Rivers people during this challenging period.
On Tuesday, President Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, suspending Governor Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all elected state lawmakers for six months.
He explained that this action was necessary to bring stability to the state, which has been engulfed in political tension due to ongoing disputes between the governor and the Assembly.
As part of the emergency measures, Tinubu appointed former Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Ibokette Ibas, to serve as the Sole Administrator of Rivers State.
