State Of Emergency In Rivers: Administrator Faces Lawmakers,Seeks More Time.
By Comfort Chukwukelue
The Chairman of the House of Representatives Ad-hoc Committee on Rivers State Oversight, Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, has emphasized that the National Assembly plays a central role in approving and overseeing the state of emergency currently in place in Rivers State.
Speaking during a long awaited meeting with the state’s administrator, Ihonvbere made it clear that without the National Assembly’s approval, a state of emergency declared by the President cannot take effect. He cited Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) which gives the President the power to declare an emergency, but only with legislative approval.
“For that state of emergency, the gazette must be sent to the National Assembly for approval. It’s only that approval that gives life to the state of emergency,” Ihonvbere said.
He also referred to Section 11(4) of the Constitution, explaining that the National Assembly can take over legislative functions in any state where the State Assembly is unable to operate. This means that all lawmaking duties, including passing budgets, fall under the committee’s oversight.
The committee, set up to monitor the crisis in Rivers State, had earlier invited the administrator but experienced delays in securing his appearance. Ihonvbere noted the importance of the meeting and praised the administrator for finally honoring the invitation.
“We are glad you are here as you promised yesterday,” he said. “This meeting, actually, was at your instance, and we are happy that you are here.”
He assured that the committee was selected to reflect Nigeria’s geopolitical diversity and has the experience to handle the situation with fairness and diligence.
Responding, the administrator of Rivers State expressed deep respect for the National Assembly and apologized for the delay, attributing it to the challenges of managing a state in transition under emergency conditions.
“Today is exactly 10 days after the first invitation. In between, we had public holidays and weekends,” he explained.
He requested additional time to prepare a full and accurate briefing for the committee, citing the complexity of the current situation in the state.
“I remain fully committed to cooperating with the committee,” he assured, thanking the chairman, lawmakers, and the press for their patience and continued support.
The meeting is expected to open the door for deeper collaboration between the federal legislature and Rivers State authorities in the effort to restore peace and stability.
