The House of Representatives has announced plans to inaugurate an ad-hoc committee to oversee the implementation of emergency measures in Rivers State, following the National Assembly’s approval of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s proclamation declaring a state of emergency in the state.
The inauguration of the committee is scheduled for Tuesday, April 15, 2025, as part of the House’s constitutional responsibility to ensure transparency and uphold democratic governance during the emergency period.
According to a statement signed by the House spokesman, Rep. Akin Rotimi Jr., the emergency proclamation presented by the President was thoroughly reviewed and amended by the National Assembly to reinforce constitutional safeguards and checks and balances.
“One of the most significant amendments was the designation of the National Assembly, rather than the Federal Executive Council, as the oversight authority for regulations issued under the emergency arrangement,” the statement said.
In line with Section 5 of the State of Emergency (Rivers State) Proclamation, 2025, and pursuant to Section 11(4) of the 1999 Constitution, the House has set up a dedicated ad-hoc committee to monitor the implementation of the emergency provisions and ensure adherence to the rule of law.
The 19-member committee is chaired by Rt. Hon. Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, with Rt. Hon. Ali Isa J.C. as deputy chairman. Other members include Rt. Hon. Isiaka Ibrahim, Rt. Hon. Idris Ahmed Wase, Rep. Aliyu Muktar Betera, Rep. Sada Soli, Rep. James Abiodun Faleke, Rep. Igariwey Iduma Enwo, and several others. The secretariat will be headed by Prof. Jake Dan-Azumi.
The House emphasized that the creation of the committee reflects its commitment to ensuring that emergency powers are exercised within the bounds of the Constitution and in the best interest of the people of Rivers State.
