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The House of Representatives will debate President Tinubu’s state of emergency declaration in Rivers State. Lawmakers will discuss the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the appointment of a sole administrator. The move has sparked political controversy, with threats of protests and vandalism in response to the decision.

The House of Representatives will convene today to deliberate on President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State. The debate follows the official communication from the president, submitted in accordance with Section 305 of the Nigerian Constitution.

House Spokesman Rep. Akin Rotimi (APC-Ekiti) confirmed the receipt of Tinubu’s letter, stating that it would be read and discussed during the plenary session. Lawmakers are expected to analyze the president’s decision and consider potential actions moving forward.

Tinubu announced the emergency measures in a live broadcast on Tuesday, citing escalating political instability between the state’s executive and legislative arms. As part of the declaration, Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu were suspended, along with all elected members of the State House of Assembly. The suspension is set to last for an initial six-month period.

Additionally, former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, has been appointed as the sole administrator of the state while judicial institutions remain operational.

The emergency declaration has sparked widespread reactions. Supporters argue that the move is necessary to restore order, while critics, including opposition leaders, claim it undermines democracy. Some stakeholders have threatened mass protests, while reports of vandalism, including attacks on oil pipelines, have emerged.

Rotimi reassured the public that the National Assembly was consulted before the announcement. He stated that legislative leaders had prior discussions with the president, the National Security Adviser, and key security officials to assess the situation before action was taken.