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Abuja – The Nigerian Senate has approved President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State. The Senate cited political tensions and security concerns as reasons for the approval.
Political Tensions and Security
The state of emergency follows a deepening crisis involving Governor Siminalayi Fubara and state lawmakers. Recent cases of pipeline vandalism have also occurred. A power struggle between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, now Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, adds to the instability.
The Senate approved it after a closed-door session. The Senate also approved a six-month suspension of Governor Fubara, his deputy, and all elected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly. The House of Representatives had previously approved the state of emergency. Vice Admiral Ibok Ibas (retd.) has been sworn in as the sole administrator of Rivers State.
