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President Bola Tinubu seeks legislative approval for emergency rule in Rivers State
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House of Representatives already received written notice from President.
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House to hear content of President’s letter seeking approval on March 19
President Bola Tinubu is seeking the Federal House of Representatives to approve an emergency rule in Rivers State.
The president has written to the lower chamber to receive legislative approval to back his pronouncement on Tuesday night.
The request is made in accordance with Section 305 of the Constitution, following heightened security concerns and political instability Rivers state.
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READ ALSO: Tinubu’s Emergency Rule In Rivers State: PDP Governors Forum Raises Concerns
The President’s request was confirmed by spokesman for the House of Representatives, Akin Rotimi, while responding to media inquiries on Tuesday.
According to Rotimi, Tinubu consulted leadership of the National Assembly before reaching the decision.
“The leadership of the National Assembly met with Mr. President and the National Security Adviser ahead of the broadcast.
“Key security chiefs were also present and were fully briefed on the situation. All parties unanimously expressed their support,” Rotimi disclosed.
READ ALSO: “We’ll Face The Situation With Wisdom” – Fubara Reacts to State of Emergency Declaration in Rivers
The President’s formal letter to the House of Representatives, informing lawmakers of his decision and requesting their approval, has now been transmitted.
According to Rotimi, the letter will be “read on the floor of the House during plenary on Wednesday, March 19, 2025.
“Further legislative action will be debated and decided on the floor.”
Tinubu earlier announced this measure in response to escalating incidents of pipeline vandalism by militants, which had not been adequately addressed by the state government.
This declaration led to the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and all state lawmakers.
A retired vice admiral, Ibokette Ibas, has been appointed as the state’s administrator for an initial six-month period.
The state of emergency grants the federal government authority to manage the state’s affairs and deploy security forces as necessary.
However, this move has been met with criticism from some quarters.
