The Nigerian Senate, led by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, has approved President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, as of March 20, 2025.
This decision was made in line with the relevant sections of the Nigerian Constitution and the Senate’s Standing Orders. The approval empowers President Tinubu to implement emergency measures in the state.As part of the emergency declaration, the Senate has also approved the suspension of elected officials in Rivers State, including Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and all elected members of the state’s House of Assembly, for a period of six months.
This move is aimed at addressing the underlying issues that led to the declaration of the state of emergency.In addition to the suspension, the National Assembly has formed a joint committee to oversee the administration of Rivers State during the emergency period.
Furthermore, a mediation committee composed of prominent Nigerians will be established to facilitate the resolution of the political crisis in the state. The South-South Governors’ Forum has expressed opposition to the declaration, demanding that President Tinubu revoke the state of emergency.
