Abuja, Nigeria – The House of Representatives has launched a 21-member ad-hoc committee to oversee emergency governance in Rivers State, following President Bola Tinubu’s suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the State Assembly. The move aims to stabilize the oil-rich region amid escalating political tensions.
Key Developments
⚖️ Emergency Rule Trigger:
- President Tinubu invoked emergency powers under Section 11(4) of the Constitution.
- Retired Rear Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas appointed as Sole Administrator for six months.
🏛️ Committee Mandate:
- Monitor federal policy implementation in Rivers State.
- Scrutinize public spending and ensure legal compliance.
- Fast-track restoration of democratic governance.
👥 Leadership & Composition:
- Chairman: Majority Leader Hon. Julius Ihonvbere.
- Deputy Chairman: Minority Whip Hon. Ali Isa J.C.
- Members Include: Former Deputy Speaker Idris Ahmed Wase, Hon. Betara Aliyu, and 17 others.
Speaker’s Directives
🗣️ Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas:
- “This is no routine task—it’s a litmus test for Nigeria’s democracy. Every action faces national scrutiny.”
- Ordered committee to operate with “zero partisanship” and prioritize transparency.
- Mandated bi-weekly reports to the House on emergency rule impacts.
Why This Matters
- Political Crisis: Fubara’s suspension followed clashes with the State Assembly.
- Economic Risks: Rivers contributes 30% of Nigeria’s oil output (NNPC).
- Constitutional Precedent: First use of Section 11(4) since 1999.
Call to Action (CTA)
👉 Vote: Can this committee restore stability in Rivers? Yes / No
👉 Share to keep Nigerians informed about constitutional governance.
👉 Follow for updates on Rivers’ path to democracy.
Next Steps:
- Committee begins public hearings in Port Harcourt next week.
- Sole Administrator Ibas to submit interim report by May 2025.
“Rivers’ stability is Nigeria’s stability.” – Political Analyst, Abuja
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