In a step to address the ongoing political tension in Rivers State, the House of Representatives has constituted a 19-member Ad-Hoc Committee to oversee the implementation of emergency measures in the state.
The announcement was made on Sunday, April 13, 2025, following the National Assembly’s approval of a revised State of Emergency declaration originally proposed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The amendment transfers supervisory responsibility from the Federal Executive Council to the National Assembly, underscoring a stronger legislative role in ensuring checks and balances.
House spokesman, Rep. Akin Rotimi, Jr., explained that the adjustment came after robust deliberations focused on upholding democratic principles and safeguarding constitutional governance.
Set to begin operations on Tuesday, April 15, the committee will be chaired by Rt. Hon. Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, with Rt. Hon. Ali Isa J.C. serving as deputy chairman. Other prominent lawmakers appointed to the committee include:
- Rt. Hon. Isiaka Ibrahim
- Rt. Hon. Idris Ahmed Wase
- Rep. Aliyu Muktar Betera
- 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
The committee’s secretariat will be led by Prof. Jake Dan-Azumi.
According to Rotimi, the committee’s formation is in line with constitutional provisions and the 2025 State of Emergency Proclamation. It aims to ensure that governance in Rivers State remains grounded in the rule of law and that all emergency actions are carried out with transparency and accountability.
This development signals a heightened legislative involvement in stabilising the political climate in Rivers State and reaffirms the House’s commitment to protecting democratic institutions.
