The House of Representatives has inaugurated a 21-member ad hoc committee to supervise the implementation of the state of emergency declared in Rivers State.
Speaking during the inauguration on Tuesday, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas emphasized that the move reflects the House’s commitment to “transparent governance and the rule of law in our country.”
President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers on March 18, citing a political crisis. In the wake of the announcement, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all members of the Rivers State Assembly were suspended for six months.
The president appointed Ibok-Ete Ibas, a retired naval chief, as the sole administrator of the state. Following his appointment, Ibas immediately suspended all political appointees of the Fubara administration.
During the event, Speaker Abbas expressed full support for the emergency rule, noting that similar measures had been taken under previous administrations, such as that of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who suspended sitting governors during his tenure.
“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 to protect the interests of the nation. This same sense of duty underpins our proceedings today.”
Abbas pointed to Section 11(4) of the 1999 Constitution, which allows the National Assembly to legislate on behalf of a state legislature that is unable to perform its statutory responsibilities.
“It is paramount to note that the current administration in Rivers state is inherently temporary,” he stated.
He explained that Ibas’ role as administrator is “strictly circumscribed”, focused solely on maintaining law and order and ensuring the continuity of governance until democracy is restored.
“The administrator is required to operate with the highest levels of transparency and accountability, reporting directly to the national assembly on all matters that pertain to the peace, order and good government of the State as prescribed by the constitution,” Abbas added.
He described the committee’s mandate as crucial, tasking members with monitoring federal directives and policies, ensuring compliance with the law, and protecting the public interest, all while facilitating the re-establishment of democratic governance.
“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,” he said.
The Speaker urged committee members to uphold “the highest standards of professionalism, impartiality, and diligence.”
“In fulfilling your mandate, you must conduct your oversight in strict accordance with the constitution and avoid all forms of partisanship or bias,” he cautioned.
“It is imperative that you monitor every aspect of the caretaker administration’s conduct, scrutinise public expenditures, and ensure that all federal directives and policies are implemented as intended.”
“Moreover, it is expected that you will regularly report your findings to this house in a transparent manner, enabling us to continuously assess the impact of the emergency measures and to take further legislative action if necessary.”
Abbas also urged the committee to contribute actively to restoring peace and democracy in Rivers State.
“Beyond mere oversight, your work must actively support efforts to restore lasting peace and re-establish a fully functioning democratic system in Rivers state,” he said.
“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 charged members to approach their duties with integrity and vigilance.
“You must be conscientious, forthright, and astute in the assignment,” Abbas added.
