On Thursday, March 20, President Bola Tinubu praised the National Assembly for its decisive and patriotic approval of the State of Emergency declaration in Rivers State. This crucial move aims to restore stability following a prolonged political crisis that has paralyzed governance in the state and posed a threat to national economic security for over 15 months.
In a statement issued by his media aide, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu specifically commended the leadership of the National Assembly, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, and other principal officers and members, for putting the security and welfare of the people of Rivers State above partisan interests.
The President also acknowledged the lawmakers’ “diligent review of classified security briefings,” which emphasized the urgent need for intervention to prevent further escalation.
“The crisis in Rivers State had reached a critical tipping point, jeopardizing the security of vital oil and gas infrastructure and threatening the national economy,” President Tinubu stated. “As I outlined in my address to the nation on March 18, the near-collapse of governance, threats to federal economic assets, and the risk of widespread violence left no room for delay. This emergency measure is vital to protecting livelihoods, securing critical infrastructure, and restoring democratic accountability.”
The President affirmed that the six-month state of emergency will empower the newly appointed Sole Administrator to stabilize Rivers State, address systemic breakdowns, and foster dialogue between conflicting parties.
President Tinubu also reiterated his administration’s commitment to working closely with the National Assembly to promote peace, economic resilience, and equitable development throughout Nigeria.
“Today’s decision exemplifies what our nation can accomplish when leaders act with unity of purpose and patriotism,” he said. “We remain dedicated to building a safer, more prosperous Nigeria—one where the potential of every citizen is protected and nurtured.”