The Nigerian Senate has officially endorsed the state of emergency declared by President Bola Tinubu in Rivers State following the lingering political crisis.
During a closed-door session on Thursday, the lawmakers deliberated on the declaration, which also saw Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and other elected officials suspended.
The closed session followed the reading of the president’s letter by Senate President Godswill Akpabio at plenary. Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele moved a motion for the session under Order 135 of the Senate Rules, and it was seconded by Minority Leader Abba Moro.
After the deliberation, Akpabio called for a voice vote, and the senators unanimously approved the emergency rule, exercising their powers under Section 305(2) of the Constitution.
“We hope the President’s declaration will foster peace and resolve the ongoing impasse in Rivers State,” Akpabio said while announcing the outcome.
The Senate further urged President Tinubu to set up an ad hoc committee of “eminent Nigerians” to mediate between the warring factions in the state.
They also recommended that the President review or terminate the state of emergency at any time, but no later than six months from now.
Additionally, the Senate resolved to form an ad hoc committee, comprising members from both the Senate and House of Representatives, to monitor the situation in Rivers State.