The House of Representatives has officially endorsed President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, approving the suspension of Governor Sim Fubara, his deputy, and all members of the state legislature for a six-month period.
The decision was reached via a voice vote during a plenary session held on Thursday, led by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas.
In his contribution, Deputy Spokesman of the House, Philip Agbese, proposed the formation of a national mediation committee to facilitate peace between Governor Fubara and the Rivers State Assembly.
The proposal was passed, signaling the House’s support for efforts to resolve the ongoing political crisis.
“If peace is reached between the two parties, the emergency rule should be lifted before six months,” suggested the Minority Whip of the House, a proposal which was also approved.
Speaker Abbas had earlier read a letter from President Tinubu notifying the House of the emergency declaration, before the session was briefly adjourned for an executive discussion.
An attempt by Abia lawmaker Obi Agwuncha to halt the debate based on constitutional requirements was overruled.
The approval marks a significant step in resolving the political unrest in Rivers State.