The Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Hon. Akin Rotimi, has confirmed that the National Assembly was duly consulted before President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Tuesday, Rotimi clarified that key leaders of the National Assembly, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of the House of Representatives Abbas Tajudeen, were briefed on the president’s decision before his national broadcast.
Rotimi stated that a high-level meeting was held ahead of the announcement, involving top legislative leaders and security officials.
“In response to multiple inquiries, I can confirm that the National Assembly was duly consulted by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, in reaching this decision,” Rotimi said.
He detailed that the meeting included Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Deputy Speaker Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, Senate Leader Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, and House Leader Rep. Prof. Julius Ihonvbere. Also present were the National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, and other top security chiefs.
“Also in attendance were key security officials, including the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, the Director-General of the State Security Service, Adeola Ajayi, and the Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency, Mohammed Mohammed.
“During this meeting, they were fully briefed on Mr. President’s intentions, and all present unanimously expressed their support,” he added.
Rotimi further revealed that President Tinubu has formally communicated his decision to the House of Representatives in line with constitutional requirements.
“Furthermore, Mr. President’s formal letter, informing the House of Representatives of his decision and seeking approval in line with Section 305 of the Constitution, has been transmitted and will be read during plenary tomorrow, Wednesday, March 19, 2025, and further legislative action debated and decided.”
