The Administrator of Rivers State, Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, will appear before the Joint National Assembly Ad Hoc Committee overseeing emergency rule in Rivers to defend the state’s ₦1.48 trillion budget for 2025.
This announcement follows a letter sent by President Bola Tinubu to the National Assembly last week, requesting the consideration and approval of the ₦1.48 trillion Appropriation Bill for the oil-rich state. The bill aims to address critical areas such as education, agriculture, and healthcare, including the provision of free drugs for the state’s residents.
Speaking at the inaugural meeting of the Senate Committee on Emergency Rule in Rivers, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, the Chairman of the committee, disclosed that Ibas, along with other state functionaries, would be required to provide detailed explanations for the emergency funding request. Bamidele emphasized the Senate’s commitment to ensuring that the people of Rivers State are not shortchanged during the period of emergency rule, which was declared by President Tinubu on March 18, 2025.
State of Emergency and Legislative Oversight
Following the declaration of emergency rule in Rivers State, President Tinubu formally requested the National Assembly to take up the legislative duties for the state, which has been under a suspension of its house of assembly. This request is in line with constitutional provisions that empower the National Assembly to assume control over a state under emergency rule.
At the meeting, Senate President Godswill Akpabio read the letter from President Tinubu, which outlined how the ₦1.48 trillion would be allocated by the Emergency Rule Government of Rivers State. The funds are intended to address essential sectors, including education, healthcare, and agricultural support.
The Senate formed an 18-member committee under the chairmanship of Senator Opeyemi Bamidele to oversee the implementation of emergency measures. The inaugural session saw the attendance of key Senate figures, including Chief Whip Senator Tahir Munguno, Deputy Chief Whip Senator Peter Nwebonyi, and several committee chairs, such as Senators Adamu Aliero and Sani Musa, who head the Committees on Land Transport and Finance, respectively.
Key Government Objectives
President Tinubu’s request aligns with his broader objective to stabilize and develop the region during the state of emergency. The President stressed that the appropriation would support long-term investments in vital public services and contribute to rebuilding and stabilizing the state’s governance framework.
The Senate has pledged its full commitment to scrutinizing and ensuring the proper use of the emergency funds, ensuring transparency in the allocation process.
Conclusion
The ₦1.48 trillion budget is a significant allocation aimed at addressing critical needs in Rivers State during its ongoing emergency rule. As the National Assembly begins the review process, all eyes will be on the oversight committee’s role in ensuring the funds are effectively utilized for the state’s recovery and development.