The Nigerian House of Representatives has voted overwhelmingly to support President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.
The decision was made during a meeting on Thursday, where lawmakers discussed the emergency rule put in place due to the ongoing political crisis in the oil-rich state.
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, confirmed that 240 lawmakers attended the session, meeting the required number for a valid decision.
The motion to approve the emergency declaration was strongly supported by Hon. Odinaka Miriam Onuoha, who represents the Okigwe North federal constituency in Imo State.
During the debate, Onuoha not only backed the state of emergency but also suggested reducing the six-month suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and other officials.
“I rise to second this motion as moved by my brother that this house due support the proclamation in view that it should be reduced shorter than the six months period, when the two parties come to the table. Whether it is tomorrow or earlier than that. I so second the motion,” she stated during the session, which was monitored by SaharaReporters via NASS TV.
This latest decision is likely to cause more debate, as political leaders and civil society groups question whether the state of emergency in Rivers State is really necessary.
Critics claim the move is a deliberate effort to weaken opposition and increase federal control over the state’s government.
The crisis in Rivers State has worsened in recent months, with reports of power struggles, impeachment plans, and conflicts between the executive and legislative branches. Governor Fubara, who is at the center of the turmoil, now faces an uncertain future as federal authorities take charge of the state’s administration.
With the House of Representatives’ approval, the Senate must now decide whether to fully support Tinubu’s controversial state of emergency declaration.
At the same time, opposition leaders and legal experts are examining the constitutional impact of this move, with some promising to challenge it in court.
Watch the video below;
“I want the house to note that today’s plenary is being attended by 243 members based on our attendance register. Just for the record, we’ve more than satisfied the requirement for this particular amendment.” – Speaker says as the house adjourned until next Tuesday. https://t.co/Qf6dkmFb5y pic.twitter.com/eiP2ImSgma
— Imran Muhammad (@Imranmuhdz) March 20, 2025
