by Political Editor
The Nigerian Senate has endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s request for a state of emergency in Rivers State, along with the six-month suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and members of the State House of Assembly.
The decision was reached on Thursday, March 20, 2025, following a closed-door session by members of the upper legislative chamber.
“After careful deliberation, the Senate has decided to align with the House of Representatives in approving the President’s proclamation,” Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced after the session, which lasted over an hour.
According to Akpabio, the Senate based its decision on Orders 133, 134, 135, and 136. Rather than individual voting, lawmakers approved the measure through a voice vote, with no senator calling for division to determine a two-thirds majority.
Earlier, Akpabio read President Tinubu’s letter seeking the Senate’s endorsement of the emergency rule.
“In compliance with Section 305, Subsection 2 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, I hereby forward, for the consideration of the Senate, copies of the official Gazette of the State of Emergency Proclamation 2025,” Tinubu’s letter stated.
The President’s letter outlined key provisions of the proclamation:
- A state of emergency in Rivers State
- Suspension of the Governor, Deputy Governor, and State House of Assembly members
- Appointment of Vice-Admiral Iboete Iba as the Administrator to oversee the state under presidential directives
“While I look forward to the expeditious consideration by the Senate, please accept, Distinguished Senate President, the assurances of my highest consideration,” Tinubu concluded in his letter.
Following the reading, Senator Seriake Dickson (PDP, Bayelsa West) raised a point of order under Rule 133, requesting a closed-door session to discuss the matter before the final decision was made.
With the Senate’s approval, Rivers State now officially falls under emergency rule, marking a significant political shift in the region.
