ABUJA, Nigeria — President Bola Tinubu has commended the National Assembly for its “patriotic approval” of the emergency rule in Rivers State, describing the decision as a crucial step to safeguard the state’s security and economic stability.
The President’s praise was contained in a statement issued on Thursday, March 20, 2025, by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
Earlier, both chambers of the National Assembly approved Tinubu’s request for emergency rule in Rivers State, solidifying the dissolution of the state government and the transfer of power to a sole administrator for six months.
The approval followed a prolonged political crisis that threatened the state’s stability and national economic interests.
In his statement, Tinubu lauded the lawmakers for prioritising the security and welfare of Rivers State above partisan interests.
“The crisis in Rivers State was at a perilous tipping point, threatening the security of vital oil and gas installations and undermining the national economy and the significant progress we have made in the reforms initiated since our administration commenced in May 2023,” the statement quoted Tinubu as saying.
He added, “As I detailed in my address to the nation on 18 March, the near-total collapse of governance, threats to federal economic assets, and the risk of widespread violence left no room for hesitation. This emergency measure is a lifeline to safeguard livelihoods, secure critical infrastructure, and restore democratic accountability.”
Tinubu emphasised that the National Assembly’s decision reflects the unity and patriotism needed to address Nigeria’s challenges.
“Today’s decision exemplifies what our nation can achieve when unity of purpose and patriotism guide the action of leaders,” the President said.
He reiterated his commitment to collaborating with the National Assembly to pursue a safer and more prosperous Nigeria.
