The Senate has established a committee to oversee the implementation of emergency rule in Rivers State, following the suspension of democratic government in the state. This development comes after President Bola Tinubu announced a state of emergency in Rivers State on March 18, 2025, and appointed Vice Admiral Ibok Ibas, retd, as the Sole Administrator to administer the state for six months.
The committee, comprising not less than 18 members, is tasked with overseeing the functions of the Sole Administrator of Rivers State. The President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, announced the composition of the committee, citing the need for oversight similar to that of the House of Representatives.
The committee is chaired by Senate leader Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, with Senator Rufai Hanga as Deputy chairman. Other members include Senators Adamu Aliero, Osita Izunaso, Osita Ngwu, Kaka Shehu, Iya Aminu Abbas, Tokubo Abiru, Adeniyi Adegbonmire, Mohamed Sani Musa, Simon Lalong, Asuquo Ekpeyong, Adams Aliyu Oshiomhole, Ireti Kingibe, Onyekachi Nwaeboyi, Idiat Adebule, Ede Dafinone, and Mohammed Maidori. The Clerk/Secretary of the committee is Mr. Charles Bala.
The President of the Senate charged the committee to commence its oversight duties without delay, emphasizing the urgency of their mandate in Rivers State. He stated that the committee should get to work immediately and review their mandate further if necessary, after consultation with colleagues.
