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Emergency Rule: Tinubu Welcomes NASS Approval, Says Rivers Crisis Threatened Economy
President Bola Tinubu yesterday commended the National Assembly for its decisive and patriotic ratification of the State of Emergency proclamation in Rivers State.
He said the move is a critical step to restoring stability after a protracted political crisis that paralysed governance in the oil-rich state and endangered national economic security for over 15 months.
Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, disclosed the President’s reaction in a statement he signed yesterday titled, ‘President Tinubu salutes National Assembly for patriotic stand on Rivers State emergency proclamation.’
The President specifically lauded the National Assembly’s leadership— Senate President Godswill Akpabio, House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, other principal officers and members—for “prioritising the security and welfare of Rivers State people above partisan interests and other considerations.”
He further acknowledged the lawmakers’ diligent review of classified security briefings, underscoring the urgent need for intervention to prevent further escalation.
“The crisis in Rivers State was at a perilous tipping point, threatening the security of vital oil and gas installations and undermining the national economy and the significant progress we have made in the reforms initiated since our administration commenced in May 2023,” Tinubu remarked.
He continued, “As I detailed in my address to the nation on 18 March, the near-total collapse of governance, threats to federal economic assets, and the risk of widespread violence left no room for hesitation.
“This emergency measure is a lifeline to safeguard livelihoods, secure critical infrastructure, and restore democratic accountability.”
The President affirmed that the six-month emergency will empower the newly-appointed Sole Administrator to stabilise Rivers State, address systemic breakdowns, and facilitate dialogue among conflicting parties.
Tinubu also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to deepening collaboration with the National Assembly to advance peace, economic resilience, and equitable development across Nigeria.
“Today’s decision exemplifies what our nation can achieve when unity of purpose and patriotism guide the action of leaders.
“We remain steadfast in pursuing a safer, more prosperous Nigeria—one where every citizen’s potential is safeguarded and nurtured,” said the president.
He thanked all Nigerians for their understanding and urged all stakeholders to support the restoration of peace in Rivers State.
Tinubu Orders Probe, Priority Treatment For Abuja Tanker Explosion Victims
President Bola Tinubu has ordered priority treatment of persons injured in Wednesday’s tanker explosion at various medical facilities in Abuja.
He also directed a thorough investigation into the incident that resulted in multiple accidents and loss of lives in Karu, Abuja.
Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, revealed the directive in a statement he signed yesterday titled, ‘President Tinubu directs investigation into tanker explosion in Karu, sympathises with victims.’
Late on Wednesday night, a tragic tanker explosion rocked the Karu area of Abuja, leading to multiple accidents and the loss of several lives.
Preliminary reports suggest that brake failure and poor road conditions contributed to the explosion, though further details are expected upon completion of the official probe.
In the immediate aftermath, Tinubu ordered a thorough investigation, instructing the relevant authorities to determine the root causes and recommend strategies to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The incident is the latest in a series of tanker-related tragedies across Nigeria in 2025.
Onanuga stated, “The President condoled with family members who lost loved ones in the inferno, which happened at the peak hour.
“President Tinubu ordered priority treatment of the injured in various medical facilities in the capital city.
“The President directed security agencies, particularly those concerned with road safety, to pay closer attention to traffic around the capital city’s entry and exit points.”
He prayed for the souls of the departed and the grace of the Almighty God to comfort families that have lost their loved ones.
The Rivers State Government has inaugurated a Central Planning Committee to organize the celebration of the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day (AFRD) in the State.
The committee was formally inaugurated by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Benibo Anabraba in Port Harcourt, last Thursday.
Dr Anabraba who also serves as Chairman of the Committee
highlighted the State Government’s deep appreciation for the sacrifices of Nigeria’s fallen heroes who laid down their lives for the nation’s peace and unity.
“These heroes have given their lives for the security and peace of our nation and deserve to be celebrated. The Armed Forces Remembrance Day is an opportunity to show our gratitude for their sacrifice,” he said.
Dr. Anabraba further extended recognition to all Security Agencies in the State, emphasizing the importance of the event in appreciating their contributions to national security and sovereignty.
The annual Armed Forces Remembrance Day, observed on January 15 across the country is dedicated to remember Nigeria’s departed soldiers and honouring the nation’s veterans.
