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By Tracy Moses
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, on Tuesday inaugurated a 21-member Ad-Hoc Committee to oversee governance during the ongoing State of Emergency in the state.
The inauguration ceremony took place at the National Assembly’s Conference Room 414 in the House of Representatives New Building and marked a critical step in the National Assembly’s constitutional intervention following the declaration of emergency rule in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu.
The committee is chaired by House Leader, Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, with Hon. Ali Isa as Deputy Chairman. Other members of the committee include prominent lawmakers such as Idris Wase, Aliyu Betara, Sada Soli, James Faleke, Igariwey Enwo, and Wole Oke, among others.
Recall that President Tinubu had declared a six-month emergency rule on March 18, 2025, following a near breakdown in governance and escalating security threats in Rivers State. Citing Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the President suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the State’s House of Assembly and appointed Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (Rtd.) as caretaker administrator.
Speaker Abbas, in his remarks, described the establishment of the committee as “a constitutional necessity and a moral obligation” by the National Assembly. He stressed the committee’s mission as one of enormous national importance, citing historical precedents in Plateau (2004), Ekiti (2006), and the Northeast (2013) where similar actions helped to restore stability.
“This Ad-Hoc Committee is not a ceremonial group; it is a task force for constitutional guardianship and the protection of democratic values. Its formation affirms our unwavering commitment to the rule of law, public accountability, and the restoration of peace in Rivers State,” the Speaker declared.
He emphasised that the committee would monitor all aspects of the emergency administration, from public finance management to federal policy implementation and security coordination, while ensuring that the interim governance does not deviate from constitutional norms.
Abbas charged the committee to maintain the highest standards of impartiality, transparency, and professionalism, adding that their work will be closely watched by Nigerians and the international community alike.
“The eyes of the nation are upon you,” he said. “You carry not just a mandate, but the collective hopes of Nigerians for justice, peace, and effective governance. This is a time for unity, not vendetta, an opportunity to uphold the ideals of democracy.”
Responding on behalf of the committee, Chairman Prof. Julius Ihonvbere expressed confidence in the committee’s capacity and resolve.
“With all due respect, this might be the most powerful ad-hoc committee constituted since 2019. We are aware of the stakes. We are ready to hit the ground running with integrity, diligence, and an unbiased approach,” he stated.
Ihonvbere assured the Speaker and Nigerians that the committee would deliver regular reports, work collaboratively with security agencies and stakeholders, and uphold the legislature’s duty to the people.
The committee is expected to submit periodic assessments to the National Assembly, ensuring that the emergency administration in Rivers State remains aligned with federal directives and constitutional responsibilities, while paving the way for the restoration of full democratic governance.