Nigeria Senate Approves State of Emergency in Rivers, Mandates Six-Month Review

The Senate has approved the state of emergency in Rivers State, granting President Bola Tinubu emergency powers. A joint committee will oversee the state’s administration, and a mediation committee will work to resolve the political crisis. The emergency rule will be reviewed within six months.

The Senate has formally endorsed President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, exercising its constitutional powers under the amended 1999 Constitution. The approval grants the President authority to enforce emergency measures in the state while requiring a periodic review of the situation within six months.

In response, the National Assembly has set up a joint committee consisting of members from both chambers, tasked with overseeing the administration of affairs in Rivers State during the emergency period. In addition, the Senate has agreed to create a mediation committee that will bring together respected Nigerians to assist in resolving the political crisis in the state.

The Senate’s action follows a similar decision by the House of Representatives and highlights the urgency of addressing the escalating tensions in Rivers. Authorities aim to stabilize the situation, restore order, and resolve ongoing political disputes, with a full review of the emergency measures planned for later this year.

The mediation committee’s formation signals a commitment to finding a peaceful resolution to the crisis, as both state and federal bodies work to prevent further instability.