Rivers State Assembly Resumes Plenary After Six-Month Emergency Rule
The Rivers State House of Assembly has resumed plenary sitting following the expiration of the six-month state of emergency imposed on the state by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The emergency rule, declared on March 18, 2025, had suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, Ngozi Odu, and all members of the House of Assembly, while Vice Admiral (Ret’d) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas was appointed as sole administrator to oversee the affairs of the state.
With the emergency rule lifted at midnight on September 17, 2025, democratic structures in Rivers State have now been fully restored. The Assembly reconvened under the leadership of Speaker Martins Amaewhule at its temporary legislative hall in Port Harcourt, following the destruction of the original assembly complex by fire earlier this year.
President Tinubu, in his directive lifting the emergency, noted that a “groundswell of a new spirit of understanding” among key stakeholders in the state informed his decision. He also charged the reinstated officials to prioritize peace, stability, and service delivery to the people of Rivers State.
In his valedictory handover, Vice Admiral Ibas commended Rivers residents, civil servants, and security agencies for their cooperation during the emergency period, highlighting achievements in law and order, local government elections, and the reconstitution of key boards and commissions.
The resumption of the Assembly marks a significant return to normalcy in the state’s democratic process. However, political observers say challenges remain, particularly around reconciliation between rival factions and addressing stalled governance initiatives.
Newsextra will continue to monitor developments as the Rivers Assembly resumes legislative duties and the state’s democratic institutions regain momentum.
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