In a move that has ignited controversy across Nigeria, the Rivers State House of Assembly has thrown its weight behind President Bola Tinubu’s decision to declare a state of emergency in the state, effectively ousting Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy.
Speaker of the House, Martin Amaewhule, in a statement issued Tuesday, admitted that the Assembly was not in favor of the drastic measure but would comply regardless.
“We assure our constituents that we will abide by this declaration, even though it is not what we prayed for. Mr. President has acted in the best interest of the country,” Amaewhule stated, signaling a reluctant but firm endorsement of Tinubu’s controversial intervention.
Amaewhule placed the blame for Rivers State’s political crisis squarely on Governor Fubara, accusing him of repeatedly defying court rulings and undermining the state legislature.
“The condition of our dear Rivers State today is mainly because of the malfeasance of the governor, who serially disobeyed court judgments and obstructed the Rivers State House of Assembly,” he alleged.
The House Speaker urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with the newly appointed Sole Administrator, retired Admiral Ibokette Ibas, who will oversee the state’s affairs for the next six months.
Tinubu’s declaration, which includes the suspension of Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the Rivers State Assembly, has drawn mixed reactions, with critics condemning it as an attack on democracy while supporters argue it is necessary to restore order.
As tensions rise, the future of Rivers State remains uncertain, with opposition figures and civil society groups calling for resistance against what they describe as an “executive overreach.