ABUJA, NIGERIA – The Nigerian House of Representatives Ad-Hoc Committee on Rivers State has formally summoned the state’s Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd.), for a crucial engagement at the National Assembly.
The committee, in a letter acknowledged by the former Chief of Naval Staff, directed Ibas to appear before it on Thursday, April 17, 2025, at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja. The session, described as a “comprehensive interactive session,” aims to assess the state of governance in Rivers State since the imposition of emergency rule by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Reps Seek Clarity on Governance Under Emergency Rule
In a statement issued by the House Spokesperson, Hon. Akin Rotimi, the committee stressed the importance of the session in ensuring legislative oversight and transparency in the management of the crisis-ridden state.
House Leader and Committee Chairman, Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, stated:
“This engagement is necessary to ascertain the true state of affairs in Rivers State and ensure that the House remains properly guided in the discharge of its oversight responsibilities in the public interest.”
Background: Emergency Rule and Appointment of Ibas
President Bola Tinubu had, on March 18, 2025, declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, invoking Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Citing political instability and threats to governance, the President suspended the elected Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all members of the state’s House of Assembly for six months.
Vice Admiral Ibas was immediately appointed as Sole Administrator, tasked with overseeing the governance of the oil-rich state during the emergency period.
Section 305 Explained
Under Section 305, the President is empowered to declare a state of emergency in situations involving:
- Breakdown of public order
- Imminent danger to public safety
- Natural disasters
- Armed rebellion or terrorism
President Tinubu’s action, which drew swift legislative ratification within 48 hours by both chambers of the National Assembly, remains one of the most controversial political moves of his tenure.
Public Outcry and Opposition
The suspension of elected officials and the imposition of an unelected administrator have drawn widespread condemnation from across Nigeria’s political and legal spectrum.
Prominent figures and organisations have denounced the move, citing constitutional violations and threats to democracy. Among them are:
- Atiku Abubakar, former Vice President
- Peter Obi, former Anambra State Governor
- Rotimi Amaechi, former Minister of Transportation
- Femi Falana (SAN), Human Rights Lawyer
- Atedo Peterside, economist and banker
- Labour Party (LP)
- Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)
- Nigerian Bar Association (NBA)
- Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF)
Many of these voices have called for the immediate restoration of democratic governance in Rivers State and the reinstatement of the suspended officials.
Historical Context: Emergency Rule in Nigeria
The last time a Nigerian president invoked emergency powers was on May 14, 2013, under President Goodluck Jonathan, when he declared emergency rule in the insurgency-plagued states of Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa.
Unlike the 2013 declaration, which was necessitated by widespread terrorism and insecurity, critics argue that the 2025 Rivers State proclamation stems from internal political power struggles.
Looking Ahead: Committee’s Next Steps
With the invitation now formally extended and accepted, the Reps Committee is set to grill the Sole Administrator, Ibas, on key developments, governance actions, and his compliance with constitutional provisions since assuming office.
The findings of this session may influence further legislative decisions regarding the continuation, modification, or termination of the emergency rule in Rivers State.
What you should know
The ongoing political impasse in Rivers State continues to attract national and international attention. As the National Assembly prepares for its pivotal session with the appointed administrator, many Nigerians await clarity and accountability in the handling of the state’s affairs.
For continuous updates on Rivers State and other political developments, stay connected to TJ News Nigeria.
