Poor attendance stalls Rivers emergency rule debate in Reps

The House of Representatives did not discuss President Bola Tinubu’s state of emergency declaration in Rivers State on Wednesday, despite earlier assurances that it would be addressed.

The House spokesperson, Akin Rotimi, had previously stated that the matter would be debated during the day’s plenary.

Following Tinubu’s nationwide broadcast on Tuesday, where he suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy and state lawmakers, Rotimi confirmed that the National Assembly had been formally informed.

“The National Assembly was duly consulted by the President. 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,” Rotimi had said.

However, contrary to expectations, the House did not deliberate on the issue during Wednesday’s session.

Findings revealed that the discussion was postponed due to poor attendance at the plenary.

It was observed that fewer than 120 lawmakers were present in the 360-member chamber.

Sources said lawmakers decided to push the discussion to Thursday’s session when more members are expected to attend.

On Tuesday, Tinubu imposed a state of emergency in Rivers State, suspending Fubara, his deputy, Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the state House of Assembly for six months.

He stated that the decision was aimed at restoring stability in the state, which has been plagued by political unrest due to disputes between the governor and lawmakers.

As part of the emergency measures, Tinubu appointed former Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Ibokette Ibas, as the state’s administrator.