Senate Goes Behind Closed Doors To Discuss Tinubu's Emergency Declaration In Rivers State

Scope 04 Apr 2025

Senate Postpones Resumption, Announce New Date

Closed Doors: Senate Deliberates on Tinubu's Emergency Declaration

On Thursday, the Senate convened for a highly anticipated closed session to deliberate on President Bola Tinubu's recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State. This move came after Senate President Godswill Akpabio read a formal letter from the president on the Senate floor. The letter detailed the rationale behind the decision to declare an emergency and suspend Governor Siminalayi Fubara, sparking immediate discussions within the legislative body.

Let me break it down for you. When the Senate President finished reading the letter, the Senate leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, quickly moved to request a private session to discuss this matter. Citing Order 135 of the Senate’s rules, Bamidele emphasized the need for confidentiality and thorough deliberation. The motion was swiftly seconded by the Senate minority leader, Abba Moro, signaling a united front in approaching this sensitive issue.

This decision to deliberate behind closed doors is no small matter. It signifies the gravity of the situation at hand and the importance of careful consideration before taking any legislative action. The Senate recognizes that the declaration of a state of emergency is not just a political move—it has profound implications for the citizens of Rivers State and the nation as a whole.

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Why Tinubu Declared a State of Emergency

It all started on Tuesday, March 18, when President Tinubu made the bold decision to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State. The reasoning behind this move? Escalating political unrest in the region. According to the president, the situation had reached a tipping point where immediate intervention was necessary to restore peace and stability.

Now, here's the kicker. Along with the declaration, President Tinubu also suspended Governor Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly. This suspension is effective for an initial period of six months, leaving many questioning the legality and implications of such a sweeping decision. It's not every day you see an entire state government sidelined in this manner.

To ensure continuity in governance, President Tinubu appointed Vice Admiral Ibok-Ette Ibas (retd.) as the sole administrator of Rivers State. Admiral Ibas, a respected figure with a strong background in national security, is tasked with overseeing the state's affairs during this period of political instability. The appointment reflects the administration's commitment to maintaining order while addressing the underlying issues contributing to the unrest.

What This Means for Rivers State and Beyond

As the Senate continues its deliberations, the eyes of the nation are firmly on them. This is not just about Rivers State—it's about setting a precedent for how such crises are handled in the future. The decisions made in this closed session could have far-reaching consequences, shaping the relationship between the federal government and state governments across the country.

For the people of Rivers State, the coming months will be a test of resilience and trust. With the suspension of their elected officials and the appointment of a sole administrator, there will undoubtedly be challenges to overcome. However, it's also an opportunity for meaningful dialogue and reform, provided the process is handled with transparency and accountability.

Stay tuned, because this story is far from over. The Senate's decision, once made public, will undoubtedly spark further discussions and debates. As always, Naija News will be here to keep you informed every step of the way.