By Rosemary Okoduwa
President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu has applauded the National Assembly for its swift ratification of the State of Emergency proclamation in Rivers State. This decisive move aims to restore stability in the state after a prolonged political crisis that paralyzed governance and threatened national economic security for over 15 months.
The President specifically praised the National Assembly’s leadership, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, for prioritizing the security and welfare of Rivers State residents above partisan interests.
President Tinubu acknowledged the lawmakers’ diligent review of classified security briefings, emphasizing the urgent need for intervention. “The crisis in Rivers State was at a perilous tipping point, threatening vital oil and gas installations and undermining the national economy,” he stated.
The six-month emergency will empower the newly-appointed Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd), to stabilize Rivers State, address systemic breakdowns, and facilitate dialogue among conflicting parties [1).
President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to collaborating with the National Assembly to advance peace, economic resilience, and equitable development across Nigeria.
“We remain steadfast in pursuing a safer, more prosperous Nigeria—one where every citizen’s potential is safeguarded and nurtured,” he said. The President thanked all Nigerians for their understanding and urged stakeholders to support the restoration of peace in Rivers State.