By Deborah Nnamdi
The Senate has constituted an 18-member committee to oversee the implementation of emergency rule in Rivers State, following the suspension of democratic governance in the state.
President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers during a nationwide broadcast on March 18, 2025, appointing retired Vice Admiral Ibok Ibas as the Sole Administrator for six months.
Announcing the committee’s formation, Senate President Godswill Akpabio emphasized the need for legislative oversight similar to that of the House of Representatives, to monitor the actions and governance under the Sole Administrator during the emergency period.
The committee will be chaired by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele (APC, Ekiti Central), with Deputy Minority Whip Rufai Hanga (NNPP, Kano Central) serving as deputy chairman.
Other members include:
Adamu Aliero (PDP, Kebbi Central), Osita Izunaso (APC, Imo West), Osita Ngwu (PDP, Enugu West), Kaka Shehu (APC, Borno Central), Iya Aminu Abbas (PDP, Adamawa Central), Tokunbo Abiru (APC, Lagos East), Adeniyi Adegbonmire (APC, Ondo Central), Mohammed Sani Musa (APC, Niger East).
Others are: Simon Lalong (APC, Plateau South), Asuquo Ekpeyong (APC, Cross River South), Adams Oshiomhole (APC, Edo North), Ireti Kingibe (LP, FCT), Onyekachi Nwaeboyi (APC, Ebonyi North), Idiat Adebule (APC, Lagos West), Ede Dafinone (APC, Delta Central), Mohammed Maidori (APC, Jigawa North East)
Mr. Charles Bala will serve as the Clerk and Secretary of the committee.
Senator Akpabio urged the committee to begin its duties immediately, noting the urgency of their mandate. He added that any necessary adjustments to the committee’s role or composition would be made after further consultations.
