The House of Representatives has overwhelmingly approved President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.
The lawmakers voted in favor of the measure after receiving a formal request from the President. Tinubu cited political instability and security concerns as reasons for the decision.
Earlier this week, President Tinubu issued a statement urging the House to support his emergency declaration. The President warned that Rivers had reached a tipping point amid deep-rooted political crises and alleged misconduct by state officials. He said the state’s institutions had failed to deliver stability and that an emergency rule would restore order and protect citizens. This declaration sparked intense debates across the nation.
Critics argued that the emergency rule might undermine democratic institutions in Rivers. Opposition leaders and civil society groups claimed the measure was a pretext for political reorganization. They said the decision could set a dangerous precedent for federal intervention in state affairs. Despite the controversy, lawmakers in the House of Representatives supported the move, with many stating that urgent action was necessary.
The history of unrest in Rivers State has drawn attention from national and international observers. Previous administrations in the state struggled to resolve political deadlock and corruption, leading to repeated public protests. The decision to impose an emergency rule comes after several failed attempts by state officials to restore order through normal democratic processes. Lawmakers believe that only strong federal intervention can address the deep-seated issues plaguing Rivers today.
The approval reinforces the federal government’s authority to implement emergency rules in the South-South state. This is one of Nigeria’s most troubled states.
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