National Assembly Approves Tinubu’s Emergency Rule Declaration in Rivers State
Port Harcourt, Nigeria – Vice Admiral Ibok-Étè Ibas (retd), the newly appointed Sole Administrator of Rivers State, has officially assumed office, pledging to restore law and order, stabilize the polity, and create an enabling environment for the full restoration of democratic institutions.
In a broadcast shortly after his inauguration at the Government House in Port Harcourt, Ibas issued a stern warning against acts of sabotage and disorder, emphasizing that his administration would not tolerate actions that threaten the state’s social and economic stability.
“Those who seek to sabotage the stability of Rivers State or disrupt the peace for selfish gains will find no tolerance here. There will be no room for lawlessness, violence, or actions that endanger our collective well-being. We will uphold justice and fairness, but we will also ensure civil order prevails,” Ibas declared.
The National Assembly earlier ratified President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s proclamation of emergency rule in Rivers State, following a closed-door session. The President commended the lawmakers for their “patriotic and decisive” action, which paved the way for Ibas’s appointment.
Tinubu Praises Lawmakers, Calls for Unity
President Tinubu, in a statement, hailed the National Assembly for its swift ratification of the emergency rule, describing it as a crucial step toward restoring stability in Rivers State. He emphasized that the crisis had reached a perilous tipping point, threatening critical oil and gas infrastructure and undermining the national economy.
“The crisis in Rivers State posed a significant threat to our national assets and economic progress. This emergency measure is a lifeline to safeguard livelihoods, secure critical infrastructure, and restore democratic accountability,” Tinubu stated.
The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to working closely with the National Assembly to ensure peace, economic resilience, and development in Rivers State.
Ibas Meets Security Chiefs, Commends Peaceful Conduct
Upon his arrival at the Port Harcourt International Airport, Ibas was received by military officials and later held meetings with the Head of Service, Permanent Secretaries, and heads of security agencies. He commended residents for their peaceful conduct and vowed to prioritize lasting peace in the state.
“Port Harcourt is my city, and I am committed to restoring it to its former state of calm and prosperity. We will work tirelessly to ensure peace and stability,” Ibas said.
Fubara Denies Involvement in Pipeline Bombing
Meanwhile, suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara has denied any involvement in the recent bombing of oil pipelines in the state. This comes after the Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, implicated him in the attacks. Fubara’s denial adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State.
Mixed Reactions Trail Emergency Rule
The declaration of emergency rule has sparked mixed reactions across the political spectrum. While some have praised the move as necessary to restore order, others have criticized it as an overreach.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar described the emergency rule as “self-serving and unnecessary,” while former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi expressed concern over the National Assembly’s use of a voice vote to ratify the proclamation, calling it a breach of constitutional procedures.
South-South Governors Divided
The South-South Governors’ Forum has also been divided over the emergency rule. While Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri, the forum’s chairman, condemned the declaration, Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo dissociated himself from the forum’s position, stating that he was not consulted.
Military Warns Against Violence
The Defence Headquarters has reiterated its commitment to protecting national assets, warning troublemakers to desist from violence or face the full wrath of the law. Maj.-Gen. Markus Kangye, Director of Defence Media Operations, emphasized that the military would not allow any individual or group to undermine the nation’s security.
A Call for Dialogue and Peace
As the situation in Rivers State unfolds, stakeholders have called for dialogue and peaceful resolution of the crisis. Politician and businessman Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim urged all parties to prioritize the interests of the people over personal rivalries, warning that the ongoing power tussle could further destabilize the region.
With Ibas at the helm, the focus remains on restoring peace and stability to Rivers State, ensuring the protection of critical infrastructure, and paving the way for the eventual return of democratic governance.
