Following President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State on March 18, 2025, the Nigerian Senate has established an 18-member committee to monitor the implementation of emergency rule. This action comes after the President suspended the democratic government and appointed Vice Admiral Ibok Ibas (retd) as the Sole Administrator for a six-month term.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced the formation of this crucial oversight committee. He emphasized the necessity for Senate oversight, mirroring the House of Representatives’ actions. Senator Opeyemi Bamidele (APC, Ekiti Central) will lead the committee as Chairman, with Senator Rufai Hanga (NNPP, Kano Central) serving as the Deputy Chairman. The committee comprises members from diverse political parties and regions, ensuring broad representation.
Akpabio has urged the committee to commence its work without delay, highlighting the urgency of their mandate in the current situation in Rivers State. The committee’s primary responsibility is to oversee the actions of the Sole Administrator and ensure that the implementation of emergency rule aligns with the interests of the state and its citizens.
