The Rivers State House of Assembly has expressed its support for President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in the state.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Speaker of the House Martin Amaewhule affirmed the Assembly’s commitment to upholding the president’s decision, despite it not being their preferred course of action.
“We assure our constituents that we will comply with this declaration, even though it is not what we had hoped for. Mr. President has acted in the best interest of the nation,” Amaewhule stated.
He attributed the crisis in Rivers State to Governor Siminalayi Fubara, accusing him of repeatedly defying court rulings and failing to govern in accordance with the constitution.
“The current state of affairs in Rivers State is largely due to the governor’s misconduct. His continuous disregard for judicial decisions and obstruction of the Rivers State House of Assembly have worsened the situation,” he said.
READ ALSO: Gov Fubara Breaks Silence Over State Of Emergency Declaration In Rivers
Amaewhule urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with the Sole Administrator appointed by the president to manage the state’s affairs.
“We call on everyone to stay peaceful as the Sole Administrator takes charge. The Assembly will fully support him in restoring order,” he added.
He also expressed gratitude to the people of Rivers State for their patience, prayers, and support during this challenging time.
READ ALSO: Lawyers Faut Tinubu’s Suspension of Rivers Gov, Others
On Tuesday, President Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, suspending Governor Fubara, his deputy, Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the state House of Assembly for six months.
He stated that the move was necessary to stabilize the state amid ongoing political tensions between the governor and the lawmakers.
Following the declaration, Tinubu appointed former Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Ibokette Ibas, as the administrator to oversee the state’s affairs.