Senate Delays Decision on Rivers State Emergency Declaration

The Nigerian Senate has postponed its decision on approving the state of emergency declared in Rivers State, following a motion by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele to delay deliberations until Thursday. The motion was seconded by Minority Leader Abba Moro, and when Senate President Godswill Akpabio called for a voice vote, the majority of lawmakers supported the postponement.

Tinubu Swears In Vice Admiral Ibas As Sole Administrator Of Rivers State

Deliberations on Rivers Crisis Put on Hold

The motion regarding the emergency declaration in Rivers State was the first item on the Senate’s agenda on Wednesday. However, before any debate could take place, lawmakers opted to defer the discussion to the next legislative session.

According to the Senate’s order paper, the legislative body acknowledges the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, which has left governance in a state of paralysis and prevented residents from enjoying the benefits of democracy.

“The Senate notes that the state has been at a standstill since the crises started, with the good people of Rivers State not being able to enjoy the dividends of democracy,” the motion reads.

The Senate also observed that the severity of the crisis has overwhelmed the state government, making it difficult for peace to be restored. The continued political standoff among key stakeholders has further complicated efforts by the federal government to stabilize the state.

“The Senate observes the magnitude of the crises has overwhelmed the state government as parties involved have not allowed good sense to prevail and bring about peace in the state. Hence, the federal government’s attempts to restore peace, security, and good governance,” the motion added.

Tinubu’s Emergency Rule Faces Scrutiny

The Senate’s decision to delay discussions on the emergency declaration adds another layer of uncertainty to President Bola Tinubu’s controversial intervention in Rivers State. On Tuesday, Tinubu invoked Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution to declare a state of emergency, citing the prolonged political turmoil that has hampered effective governance.

As part of the emergency measures, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly were suspended for an initial six-month period. Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd.) was subsequently sworn in as the Sole Administrator of the state.

While some political factions, particularly those loyal to former Governor Nyesom Wike, have expressed support for the emergency rule, critics—including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s Peter Obi, and legal experts—have strongly condemned the move, calling it unconstitutional.

What’s Next for Rivers State?

With the Senate delaying its decision, questions remain about how the situation in Rivers State will unfold. Legal analysts argue that legislative approval is required to validate the emergency declaration, and any prolonged delay could create further political and legal complications.

As the Senate prepares to revisit the issue on Thursday, political observers will be watching closely to see whether lawmakers will approve or challenge Tinubu’s decision. The outcome of the deliberations could shape the trajectory of governance in Rivers State and set a significant precedent for federal interventions in state affairs.