President Bola Tinubu has commended the National Assembly for what he described as a “decisive and patriotic” ratification of the State of Emergency in Rivers State, emphasizing that the move was necessary to restore stability after months of political turmoil.
In a statement released by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu praised Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, and other lawmakers for prioritizing security and governance in Rivers over partisan interests.
The President justified the emergency declaration by highlighting the severe threats posed to Nigeria’s economic stability due to the prolonged crisis.
“The crisis in Rivers State was at a perilous tipping point, threatening the security of vital oil and gas installations and undermining the national economy and the significant progress we have made in the reforms initiated since our administration commenced in May 2023,” the statement read.
He reiterated that the collapse of governance in the state, along with threats to federal assets and the risk of widespread violence, made the emergency rule unavoidable.
“As I detailed in my address to the nation on 18 March, the near-total collapse of governance, threats to federal economic assets, and the risk of widespread violence left no room for hesitation. This emergency measure is a lifeline to safeguard livelihoods, secure critical infrastructure, and restore democratic accountability,” Tinubu said.
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Tinubu assured Nigerians that the six-month emergency rule would empower the newly appointed Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), to stabilize the state, address systemic failures, and foster dialogue among warring factions.
He also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to working closely with the National Assembly to promote peace, economic resilience, and development nationwide.
“Today’s decision exemplifies what our nation can achieve when unity of purpose and patriotism guide the action of leaders. We remain steadfast in pursuing a safer, more prosperous Nigeria—one where every citizen’s potential is safeguarded and nurtured,” he said.
The President called on all Nigerians to support the restoration of peace in Rivers State and thanked the public for their understanding as his government takes steps to address the crisis.