Politics
Reps Launch Probe into Rivers State: Inaugurates Committee
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, has inaugurated a 21-member Ad-Hoc Committee to oversee the administration of Rivers State during the ongoing State of Emergency on Tuesday.
This move reaffirms the National Assembly’s commitment to constitutional governance, transparency, and national unity.
The committee, chaired by House Leader Rep. Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, with Rep. Ali Isa J.C. as Deputy Chairman. Other members include Hon. Isiaka Ibrahim, Rep. Idris Ahmed Wase, Rep. Aliyu Muktar Betara, Rep. Sada Soli, Rep. James Abiodun Faleke, Rep. Igariwey Iduma Enwo, Rep. Shehu Saleh Rijau, Rep. Wole Oke, Rep. Akarachi Etinosa Amadi, Rep. Patrick Umoh, Rep. James Barka, Rep. Alex Egbona, Rep. Isa Anka, Rep. Amos Daniel, Rep. Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu, Rep. Onuh Onyeche Blessing, Rep. Fatima Talba, Rep. Chris Nkwonta, and Rep. Ebibake Marie Enenimiete.
“This marks a critical milestone in our constitutional mandate and is a reflection of our dedication to transparent governance and the rule of law,” Abbas said, emphasizing the National Assembly’s vital role in upholding constitutional order during states of emergency, citing previous interventions in Plateau (2004), Ekiti (2006), and the North-East (2013).
The Speaker clarified that the caretaker administration, led by Rear Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (Rtd.), is a temporary measure aimed at restoring peace and basic governance functions in Rivers State.
“The Administrator’s role is limited to maintaining law and order until democratic governance is fully restored,” Abbas stated, adding that the Administrator must report directly to the National Assembly.
Abbas urged committee members to conduct their oversight responsibilities with integrity, professionalism, and impartiality.
“You must avoid partisanship and ensure that your actions strictly align with the Constitution,” he warned. “Beyond oversight, you are also expected to support reconciliation and peacebuilding efforts in Rivers State.”
Committee Chairman Rep. Julius Ihonvbere pledged the team’s full commitment to the task. “If I am not wrong, this is probably the strongest ad-hoc committee ever set up since 2019,” Ihonvbere said.
“With the experience, exposure, and dedication of this team, I assure you on behalf of my colleagues that we will not disappoint the Speaker, the National Assembly, or the Nigerian people.”
The committee will submit periodic reports to the House, monitor federal policy implementation in Rivers State, and ensure the caretaker government operates within constitutional limits, working towards restoring peace and stability in the state
