The House of Representatives has approved the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, along with a six-month suspension of Governor Sim Fubara, his deputy, and all elected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly. This approval came after President Bola Tinubu’s proclamation, which was confirmed through a voice vote during plenary on Thursday.
The Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, presided over the plenary and called for contributions from members regarding the general principles of the President’s report. Benue lawmaker and Deputy Spokesman of the House, Philip Agbese, proposed the creation of a national mediation committee to help facilitate peace between Governor Fubara and the Rivers State House of Assembly. This proposal was approved by the House.
Additionally, the Minority Whip suggested that the six-month suspension of the governor and the legislature should not be permanent. He recommended that if peace is reached between the two parties, the emergency rule should be lifted before the six months. This suggestion was also approved by the House.
Before the discussion, the Speaker read a letter from the President notifying the House of the emergency declaration. The House briefly went into an executive session for about 10 minutes before returning to the plenary.
An attempt by Abia lawmaker Obi Agwuncha to halt the debate on the declaration, citing Section 305 (6b) of the Constitution, which requires two-thirds of the House members to be present, was overruled by the Speaker.
This decision marks a significant step in addressing the political crisis in Rivers State, with the potential for further dialogue and mediation to resolve the underlying issues.