The House of Representatives has inaugurated a 21-member ad-hoc committee to oversee the caretaker government in Rivers State, following the recent declaration of a state of emergency in the oil-rich state. The move, according to the lawmakers, is aimed at ensuring that governance in the state remains transparent, lawful, and in the best interest of the people during this critical period.
Speaker of the House, Rep. Tajudeen Abbas, while inaugurating the committee on Tuesday, explained that the decision was in line with Section 11(4) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which empowers the National Assembly to take over legislative functions in any state assembly that is unable to perform its duties due to prevailing circumstances.
The inauguration comes after the Federal Government, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, declared a state of emergency in Rivers State and appointed retired Rear Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as the Sole Administrator, a decision that has generated widespread national interest.
Speaking during the event at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja, Speaker Abbas said the formation of the committee was a constitutional step and not a political move. He emphasized that the primary responsibility of the committee would be to provide oversight of the caretaker administration and ensure that all federal directives and constitutional guidelines are strictly followed.
“Today’s inauguration of the 21-member ad-hoc committee on Rivers State reaffirms our constitutional commitment to transparent governance,” the Speaker said. “Empowered by Section 5 of the State of Emergency (Rivers State) Proclamation 2025 and pursuant to Section 11(4) of our Constitution, this committee has a clear and non-partisan mandate.”
Abbas stressed the importance of impartiality and professionalism, reminding members that the eyes of the nation would be on their every action. He urged them to work without bias and in accordance with the law to restore peace, order, and democracy to Rivers State.
“The importance of the assignment places a considerable burden on the chairman and all members, as every action taken will be subject to national scrutiny,” he stated. “Beyond mere oversight, your work must actively support efforts to restore lasting peace and re-establish a fully functioning democratic system in Rivers State.”
He further advised the committee to collaborate with all relevant stakeholders, including federal agencies, security institutions, and reconciliation groups, to build public trust and ensure a smooth transition.
“This intervention is not a political vendetta,” Abbas clarified. “It is a constitutional necessity aimed at safeguarding the rule of law, peace, and good governance in Rivers State. The National Assembly cannot fold its arms when governance in any part of the country is at risk.”
The House Speaker commended President Tinubu for what he described as timely action in line with Section 305 of the Constitution. He said the President’s decision to act decisively in Rivers shows leadership and a commitment to national stability.
Abbas also charged the newly appointed Sole Administrator, Retired Rear Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, to remain transparent and accountable throughout his tenure. He reminded him that his role is temporary and that he must discharge his duties in line with the constitutional expectations of a transitional government.
“The Sole Administrator must understand that his role is not permanent. He is a caretaker and must act with the highest level of transparency and accountability. All actions taken during this period will be subject to review and evaluation,” Abbas said.
In response, the chairman of the newly inaugurated committee, Rep. Julius Ihonvbere, who also serves as the House Majority Leader, expressed gratitude to the Speaker and members of the House for the confidence reposed in the committee. He assured the public that the team would carry out its assignment with integrity and diligence.
“We promise not to fail the National Assembly or Nigerians at large. We understand the importance of this assignment and will carry it out with utmost responsibility and fairness,” Ihonvbere, a professor of political science, said.
Ihonvbere also noted that the committee would ensure that the administration in Rivers complies strictly with the laws of the land and that no rights are violated under the state of emergency.
The 21-member committee is made up of both senior and experienced lawmakers from across the country. Members include: Ali Isa (Deputy Chairman), Isiaka Ibrahim, Idris Wase, Aliyu Betara, Sada Soli, James Faleke, Igariwey Enwo, Shehu Rijau, and Wole Oke.
Other members are Akarachi Amadi, Patrick Umoh, James Barka, Alex Egbona, Isa Anka, Amos Daniel, Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu, Onuh Onyeche, Fatima Talba, Chris Nkwonta, and Bibake Enenimiete.
The emergency declaration in Rivers State follows months of political tension, unrest, and reported breakdown in the functions of the state’s House of Assembly. The crisis, which began as a power tussle between top political leaders, worsened in recent weeks, with reports of protests, clashes, and legislative disruptions.
The inability of the state assembly to hold regular sessions or pass laws had raised concerns about governance, prompting the intervention of the federal government.
With the appointment of a Sole Administrator and the dissolution of key political structures, the National Assembly stepped in to exercise its constitutional duty, taking temporary legislative control of the state as provided for under Section 11(4) of the 1999 Constitution.
The House of Representatives has now tasked its ad-hoc committee with monitoring the day-to-day activities of the caretaker administration and ensuring that governance continues in a lawful and people-focused manner.