The Nigerian Senate has officially approved President Bola Tinubu’s proclamation of a state of emergency in Rivers State, following the House of Representatives’ earlier approval of the decision.
It would be recalled that President Bola Tinubu had suspended Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Mrs. Ngozi Odu, after declaring a state of emergency in the state due to the escalating political crisis and security concerns.
The declaration sparked nationwide reactions, with some Nigerians criticizing the move and accusing the president of using excessive power. Many took to social media to voice their concerns, with some labeling Tinubu as a "terrible president" over the decision.
Despite the backlash, the Senate has now given its approval, thereby granting President Tinubu full authority to enforce emergency measures within Rivers State. The resolution, however, mandates that the situation be reviewed periodically, with a maximum timeline of six months before the next assessment.
As stipulated by the Nigerian Constitution, the National Assembly has also set up a joint committee composed of members from both legislative chambers. This committee is tasked with overseeing governance and administrative activities in Rivers State throughout the emergency period.
Additionally, the Senate has announced plans to establish a separate committee consisting of eminent Nigerians who will be responsible for providing mediation and proposing long-term solutions to the ongoing political crisis affecting the state and, by extension, the country as a whole.