The Nigerian Senate has approved President Bola Tinubu’s request to impose emergency rule in Rivers State, solidifying the federal takeover of the oil-rich region amid a deepening political crisis.
The decision followed a closed-door session on Thursday, where lawmakers deliberated on the controversial suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the federal government’s assumption of control over the state’s administration.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio presided over the session, after which senators voted in favor of Tinubu’s proclamation. This approval came a day after the swearing-in of Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas as the sole administrator of Rivers State.
Ibas wasted no time assuming his role, arriving at the Rivers State Government House on Thursday morning. He immediately presided over a closed-door meeting with senior security officers, a federal government delegation, and top state officials.
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Before approving the emergency rule, senators held a highly secretive session to consider its implications. Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele moved the motion for the closed session under Order 135 of the Senate rules, citing procedural regulations. The motion was seconded by Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro, paving the way for behind-the-scenes deliberations.
The House of Representatives had earlier overwhelmingly voted in support of Tinubu’s emergency rule declaration, ensuring that both legislative chambers were aligned with the president’s directive.
With legislative backing secured, the federal takeover of Rivers State is now constitutionally affirmed, further intensifying the political tension surrounding the move.
