President Bola Tinubu on Thursday lauded the National Assembly for its ratification of the State of Emergency proclamation in Rivers State.
Tinubu, who described the approval as “decisive and patriotic,” expressed optimism that it would help restore stability after a protracted political crisis that paralysed governance in the state.
According to him, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, and other principal officers and members prioritised the security and welfare of Rivers State people above partisan interests and other considerations.
“The crisis in Rivers State was at a perilous tipping point, threatening the security of vital oil and gas installations and undermining the national economy and the significant progress we have made in the reforms initiated since our administration commenced in May 2023,” President Tinubu remarked.
“As I detailed in my address to the nation on 18 March, the near-total collapse of governance, threats to federal economic assets, and the risk of widespread violence left no room for hesitation. This emergency measure is a lifeline to safeguard livelihoods, secure critical infrastructure, and restore democratic accountability,” presidential spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, quoted his principal to have said.
Tinubu affirmed that the six-month emergency will empower the newly-appointed Sole Administrator to stabilise Rivers State, address systemic breakdowns, and facilitate dialogue among conflicting parties.
He also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to deepening collaboration with the National Assembly to advance peace, economic resilience, and equitable development across Nigeria.
“Today’s decision exemplifies what our nation can achieve when unity of purpose and patriotism guide the action of leaders. We remain steadfast in pursuing a safer, more prosperous Nigeria—one where every citizen’s potential is safeguarded and nurtured,” said Tinubu.
