Speaker Abbas: National Assembly To Set Up Committee To Restore Democracy In Rivers
Tajudeen Abbas, Speaker of the House of Representatives, says the National Assembly will constitute a committee to facilitate the restoration of democratic order in Rivers State.
Speaking on Tuesday while welcoming his colleagues back from recess, Abbas said the House would collaborate with the Senate to set up a “high-level committee” to address the crisis in the state.
“In the coming weeks, we shall work with the Senate to constitute a high-level committee on reconciliation, comprising respected national figures, to facilitate dialogue, promote peace, and support the restoration of democratic order in Rivers State and other conflict-affected regions,” Abbas said.
On the issue of insecurity across the country, the Speaker called for renewed investment in security intelligence, surveillance technology, and inter-agency coordination.
He added that the House would expedite the consideration and passage of critical bills that directly affect the stability, prosperity, and well-being of Nigerians.
According to Abbas, these include the long-awaited electoral reform bill, which is fundamental to strengthening democratic processes, as well as legislation on unemployment, poverty alleviation, fiscal reform, healthcare, education, and security.
On March 18, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, citing a prolonged political crisis.
The president suspended the state governor, Siminalayi Fubara; his deputy, Ngozi Odu; and all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for a period of six months. He also appointed Ibok-Ette Ibas, a retired naval chief, as the state’s sole administrator.
Following his appointment, Ibas suspended all political officeholders appointed by Governor Fubara.
Several stakeholders, including the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), have criticised Ibas over his handling of the state’s affairs. Protests have since erupted across the state, demanding Fubara’s reinstatement.
On April 15, Speaker Abbas inaugurated a 21-member committee to promote transparent governance and uphold the rule of law in the state.
A day later, the lawmakers summoned the sole administrator to appear before them on April 17. However, Ibas requested a rescheduling, and the meeting was moved to April 24.
Despite this, he failed to honour the invitation. When he finally appeared before the committee on April 25, Ibas appealed for more time to prepare for the briefing, describing the political situation as “complex.”
