Tinubu applauds National Assembly for approving state of emergency in Rivers

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended the National Assembly for its swift and patriotic ratification of the State of Emergency in Rivers State, describing it as a crucial step in restoring stability to the oil-rich state.

In a statement issued on Thursday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu praised the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio; Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas; and other lawmakers for setting aside partisan interests to prioritize security and governance in Rivers.

The President stated that the emergency measures were necessary to end months of political turmoil, which had disrupted governance and posed a threat to national economic stability.

He further acknowledged the lawmakers’ diligent review of classified security briefings, underscoring the urgent need for intervention to prevent further escalation.

“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.

“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,” the statement quoted the President to have said.

The President 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.

Tinubu 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,” he said.

The President thanked all Nigerians for their understanding and urged all stakeholders to support the restoration of peace in Rivers State.