Senate Sets Up Committee to Monitor Rivers Sole Administrator Amid Emergency Rule

In response to the political instability in Rivers State, the leadership of the 10th Senate on Tuesday established an 18-member oversight committee to supervise the administration of the newly appointed Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.). This follows the recent declaration of a state of emergency in the state, triggered by deepening political tensions and security concerns.

Announcing the formation of the committee after the Senate resumed plenary, Senate President Godswill Akpabio stated that the move was crucial to promoting transparency, accountability, and the rule of law during the emergency governance period in Rivers State.

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Oversight Role to Foster Legislative Accountability

Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, the Senate Leader, was appointed chairman of the committee. Other members include prominent lawmakers such as Adamu Aliero, Osita Izunaso (Imo West), Osita Ngwu (South East), Tokunbo Abiru, Ireti Kingibe, and Adams Oshiomhole, among others.

Akpabio emphasized the Senate’s responsibility to maintain democratic norms despite the extraordinary governance situation in Rivers. “This committee will ensure that constitutional values are upheld and that the temporary administration operates with integrity and focus,” he said.

He added that the committee’s structure may be subject to further review, pending ongoing consultations with stakeholders and developments on the ground.

Eradiri Calls for Genuine Reconciliation

In a related development, former Labour Party governorship candidate in Bayelsa State, Udengs Eradiri, issued a strong appeal to the suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara. Eradiri urged Fubara to continue his reconciliation efforts with Minister Nyesom Wike and avoid being misled by political opportunists seeking to benefit from the ongoing crisis.

Speaking from Port Harcourt, Eradiri, a former Commissioner for Youths and later Environment in Bayelsa State, noted that despite initial backlash from Ijaw leaders over his earlier advice to Fubara, he felt vindicated that the suspended governor had embraced reconciliation with Wike.

Eradiri highlighted the need for maturity, reflection, and diplomacy from Fubara at this delicate time, warning against aligning with individuals he labeled as “enemies of Rivers State.”

“These individuals frame the crisis along ethnic lines, encourage constitutional breaches, and manipulate the process for personal gain. They are not interested in peace,” Eradiri declared.

“Second Chance Must Not Be Wasted” — Eradiri

Eradiri stated that the emergency rule should be seen as a lifeline for Fubara’s political future and a rare opportunity to repair fractured alliances. “To Fubara, I say thank God that President Tinubu saved you through the declaration of emergency rule. This opportunity has offered you a second chance; please do not bungle it,” he advised.

He commended the governor’s earlier decision to meet with Wike and offer an apology, calling it a bold first step toward reconciliation. However, he stressed the importance of consistent follow-up and distancing from those who might derail peace efforts.

“Make yourself unreachable to those who will try to slow down or manipulate the reconciliation process. You need peace more than they do,” he warned.

Supporters’ Actions May Derail Progress

Eradiri also criticized the recent walkout by women supporters of Fubara during an empowerment program organized by First Lady Senator Remi Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Initiative. The protest was sparked by the presence of Dr. Theresa Ibas, wife of the Sole Administrator, who represented the First Lady at the event.

“Such action is condemnable during this reconciliation process. It casts doubt on the sincerity of Governor Fubara’s efforts and risks stalling hard-earned progress,” Eradiri said.

He urged Fubara to take responsibility for the actions of his supporters and actively discourage behaviors that could inflame tensions or embarrass the state during national engagements.

Appeal to Wike and Stakeholders

Calling for broader reconciliation, Eradiri appealed to Minister Wike, suspended lawmakers, and other political stakeholders to soften their positions and support Fubara in stabilizing Rivers State.

“Let us not forget that the future of this state is at stake. Personal pride must take a back seat to public interest. Reconciliation is not weakness; it is strength in leadership,” he stated.

He also called on the Senate’s oversight committee to approach its task with fairness and objectivity, noting that its findings and recommendations could influence the long-term governance model in Rivers State.

As the situation unfolds, all eyes will remain on Rivers and the newly constituted Senate committee, as Nigeria watches how democracy and peace can be preserved in the face of a political emergency.