President Bola Tinubu has applauded the Senate and House of Representatives for swiftly approving the state of emergency he declared in Rivers State.
Recall that Tinubu announced the emergency yesterday, suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Mrs Ngozi Odu, over the escalating political crisis in the state.
Following the declaration, the Senate granted the president full authority to enforce emergency measures while mandating a review within six months.
In a statement signed by his media aide, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu commended the National Assembly’s leadership—Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, and other lawmakers—for “putting the welfare and security of Rivers people above politics.”
According to him, the situation in Rivers was critical, threatening vital oil and gas installations and the national economy.
“The crisis was at a tipping point, risking widespread violence, collapse of governance, and damage to federal assets. This emergency became necessary to protect livelihoods, secure critical infrastructure, and restore democratic accountability,” the statement read.
Tinubu also assured that the state of emergency would empower the newly appointed administrator to address the challenges facing Rivers State and restore stability.