Rivers Crisis: Lawmakers Endorse State OF Emergency – Kuye Confirms

Speaking at a media briefing in Abuja on Wednesday, Kuye, who chairs the House Committee on Public Assets, stressed the importance of upholding democracy and maintaining law and order, regardless of political affiliations. He emphasized that protecting citizens’ lives and property is the primary duty of any government, warning that democracy itself is at risk if governance collapses.

Kuye stated that lawmakers would stand by Tinubu’s emergency rule proclamation to safeguard the democratic process. “We will defend democracy without bias. No responsible government can allow lawlessness to persist,” he asserted.

Recalling past interventions, Kuye referenced the Ninth National Assembly’s role in resolving the Edo State House of Assembly crisis, underscoring the legislature’s commitment to preserving democracy. He acknowledged Tinubu’s earlier efforts to mediate the Rivers crisis, noting that despite a Supreme Court ruling, the conflict escalated, leading to the destruction of vital infrastructure, including oil pipelines.

On Tuesday, President Tinubu officially declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all state lawmakers for six months. Citing security concerns and political instability, Tinubu stated in a nationwide address that militant activities, including pipeline vandalism, had worsened under the governor’s watch. He directed security agencies to restore order and protect critical national assets, including oil infrastructure.