The House of Representatives on Wednesday did not deliberate on President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, despite prior assurances.

This inaction contradicts an earlier statement by the House spokesperson, Hon. Akin Rotimi, who had indicated that the matter would be discussed during the day’s plenary session.

After President Bola Tinubu’s nationwide address on Tuesday, March 18, where he declared the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, House spokesperson Akin Rotimi confirmed that the President had formally notified the National Assembly of his decision.

However, despite expectations, the House of Representatives did not discuss the matter as anticipated.

“The National Assembly was duly consulted by the President. Mr. President’s formal letter, informing the House of Representatives of his decision and seeking approval in line with Section 305 of the Constitution, has been transmitted and will be read during plenary tomorrow, Wednesday, March 19, 2025,” Rotimi had stated.

The discussion, it was learned, was stalled due to a low turnout of lawmakers at the session. With Deputy Speaker Benjamin Okezie Kalu presiding, fewer than 120 members were present in the 360-member chamber, making it difficult to proceed with substantive deliberations.

Sources within the lower legislative chamber revealed that lawmakers opted to postpone the debate until Thursday, anticipating a higher attendance for a more comprehensive discussion.

While several members refrained from commenting on the delay, they assured that the matter would be addressed once it is formally presented for debate.