President Bola Tinubu praised the National Assembly on Thursday, March 20, for their swift and patriotic approval of the State of Emergency declaration in Rivers State. This crucial step is aimed at restoring stability following a prolonged political crisis that halted governance and threatened national economic security for over 15 months.
In a statement from his media aide, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu specifically lauded the National Assembly’s leadership—Senate President Godswill Akpabio, House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, along with other key officials and members—for “putting the security and welfare of the Rivers State people above partisan interests.”
The President also recognized the lawmakers’ “thorough evaluation of classified security reports, which highlighted the urgent necessity for intervention to prevent further deterioration.”
“The situation in Rivers State had reached a critical point, threatening vital oil and gas facilities and jeopardizing the national economy, along with the considerable progress made since our administration began in May 2023.
As outlined in my national address on March 18, the near-collapse of governance, threats to federal economic assets, and the potential for widespread violence required immediate action. This emergency measure serves as a lifeline to protect livelihoods, secure critical infrastructure, and restore democratic accountability.”
The President noted that the six-month emergency will empower the newly-appointed Sole Administrator to stabilize Rivers State, address systemic failures, and encourage dialogue among opposing factions.
President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to strengthening collaboration with the National Assembly to promote peace, economic resilience, and fair development throughout Nigeria.
“Today’s decision highlights what our nation can achieve when unity and patriotism guide our leaders’ actions. We remain committed to building a safer, more prosperous Nigeria—one where every citizen’s potential is protected and nurtured,” he stated.
