The Rivers State House of Assembly has expressed its support for President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in the state, despite acknowledging that it was not their preferred outcome.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Speaker Martin Amaewhule confirmed the Assembly’s stance, stating that while the lawmakers had hoped for a different resolution, they respected the president’s decision.
“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.
He attributed the political crisis in Rivers State to Governor Siminalayi Fubara, accusing him of disregarding court rulings and undermining constitutional governance.
“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 remarked.
The Speaker called on residents to remain calm and cooperate with the Sole Administrator appointed by the president to oversee the state’s affairs during the emergency period.
“We urge everyone to remain calm as the Sole Administrator assumes duty. Rest assured that the Assembly will give him all the necessary support to restore order,” he assured.
He also expressed gratitude to the people of Rivers State for their patience, prayers, and support during this turbulent period.
On Tuesday, President Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, suspending Governor Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all elected state lawmakers for six months.
The president explained that the decision was necessary to restore stability in the state, which has been grappling with intense political tensions and disputes between the governor and the Assembly.
As part of the emergency measures, Tinubu appointed former Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Ibokette Ibas, to serve as the Sole Administrator of Rivers State.