The Senate has confirmed receipt of President Bola Tinubu’s letter regarding the suspension of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara for six months.
However, discussions on the matter have been postponed until 3 PM.
Although the issue was initially scheduled as the first item on the Senate’s agenda, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele (APC, Ekiti Central) invoked Order 1(b) of the Senate Standing Orders 2023 (as amended) to request a delay. His motion was backed by Minority Leader Abba Moro (PDP, Benue South), leading the chamber to shift focus to another agenda item.
Following this, the Senate proceeded with the confirmation hearing for nominees to the Police Service Commission (PSC). Presenting the report, Senator Abdulhamid Mallam-Madori (APC, Jigawa East), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Police Affairs, urged lawmakers to consider the candidates.
The plenary session started later than scheduled, with the customary prayer session beginning at 12:41 PM after Senate President Godswill Akpabio arrived. Official proceedings commenced at 1:05 PM with the adoption of votes and proceedings.
On Tuesday, President Tinubu announced a state of emergency in Rivers State, citing prolonged political unrest, constitutional violations, and security concerns. As a result, Governor Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly were suspended for an initial six-month period.
The crisis in Rivers State stems from a political power struggle between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, who currently serves as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. To oversee the state’s affairs, Tinubu appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Étè Ibas, a former Chief of Naval Staff, as sole administrator.
Further updates to follow…
