The House of Representatives has inaugurated a 21-member ad hoc committee to supervise the state of emergency declared in Rivers State by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, reinforcing its role in upholding democratic governance and the rule of law.
Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, who performed the inauguration on Tuesday, said the move signals the parliament’s unwavering commitment to transparent governance and national stability.
On March 18, President Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, citing an escalating political crisis. The president also suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and the entire state House of Assembly for six months. In their place, he appointed retired naval chief Ibok-Ete Ibas as sole administrator of the state.
Following his appointment, Ibas swiftly suspended all political appointees installed by the Fubara administration, effectively assuming full executive control of the state.
During the inauguration, Speaker Abbas backed the president’s decision, likening it to similar interventions under past administrations, notably that of former President Olusegun Obasanjo.
“This decisive action was taken out of genuine patriotism and a deep concern for the security and welfare of both the people of Rivers State and our country as a whole,” Abbas said. “The President’s extraordinary actions were not taken lightly. They reflect a profound sense of duty and responsibility and a recognition that when democratic institutions falter, decisive action is necessary.”
Abbas cited Section 11(4) of the 1999 Constitution, which empowers the National Assembly to legislate for a state where its assembly is unable to perform its duties. He described the current administration in Rivers as “inherently temporary,” adding that the administrator’s role is “strictly circumscribed.”
“He is charged with maintaining law and order and ensuring that the basic functions of governance are met only until full democratic governance is restored,” Abbas explained.
The committee’s core mandate includes monitoring the implementation of federal policies and directives, ensuring accountability and transparency in governance, and safeguarding the public interest. Abbas emphasized that the committee would work closely with federal agencies and security institutions, and potentially assist with reconciliation efforts in the state.
“The members of this committee have been selected with meticulous care by the House leadership based on their integrity, experience, and steadfast dedication to the national interest,” the Speaker said.
He urged the committee members to carry out their responsibilities with the “highest standards of professionalism, impartiality, and diligence,” cautioning them against any form of political bias.
“It is imperative that you monitor every aspect of the caretaker administration’s conduct, scrutinize public expenditures, and ensure that all federal directives and policies are implemented as intended,” Abbas stated. “You must regularly report your findings to this house in a transparent manner.”
He also charged the committee to actively support peacebuilding efforts and help pave the way for a return to democratic rule in the state.
“You are called upon to interface with federal agencies, security institutions, and any reconciliation initiatives that may be established, fostering trust among all stakeholders in the process,” he added.
The committee will serve as a critical legislative check during the emergency period, ensuring that governance in Rivers State remains anchored in constitutionalism and public accountability.
