The Rivers State House of Assembly has officially resumed sitting following the suspension of emergency rule in the state by President Bola Tinubu. The lawmakers are scheduled to hold their first plenary at 10 a.m. on Thursday, September 18, 2025, marking a significant step in the restoration of democratic governance in the oil-rich state.
The announcement of the plenary came barely 24 hours after President Tinubu lifted the emergency rule that had been imposed due to prolonged political crises in Rivers. The emergency administration, which temporarily halted normal governance, was introduced to restore law and order after tensions among political stakeholders escalated to levels that threatened peace and security.
With the return of civilian authority, the Rivers Assembly is expected to take up its constitutional role in lawmaking, oversight, and representing the interests of citizens. Thursday’s plenary will be presided over by Speaker Martin Amaewhule, who will lead his colleagues in deliberations. However, the sitting will not be held at the main Assembly complex. Instead, lawmakers will meet at the Conference Hall of the Legislative Quarters on Aba Road, a temporary arrangement necessitated by earlier disruptions and safety concerns.
The reconvening of the Assembly has been widely described as symbolic of political stability returning to Rivers. Analysts believe the session will serve as a platform to address lingering divisions within the political class, rebuild governance structures, and initiate policies that prioritize the welfare of citizens. Many residents of the state, who endured months of tension and uncertainty, are hopeful that the legislature will now focus on addressing pressing developmental issues.
The decision by President Tinubu to lift the emergency rule has drawn reactions from various quarters. The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) commended the President for restoring democratic governance, describing it as a bold move that would help calm frayed nerves in the region. Civil society organizations have also urged political leaders in Rivers to embrace dialogue, put aside personal rivalries, and work collectively toward peace and sustainable development.
The crisis in Rivers had generated nationwide concern, especially because of the state’s strategic importance as a hub of Nigeria’s oil and gas industry. Prolonged instability in the region raised fears of disruptions to national revenue and energy security. Now that the Assembly has resumed, political observers say the focus should be on reconciliation and rebuilding trust, not only within the legislature but also between government and citizens.
However, challenges still lie ahead. The lawmakers must navigate the deep divisions caused by months of political confrontation, while also working to regain public confidence. Citizens are expecting tangible results, such as improved governance, infrastructure, job creation, and economic recovery. The conduct of the Assembly in the coming weeks will therefore be critical in determining whether Rivers can fully transition from crisis to stability.
As Speaker Amaewhule gavels in the first plenary since the end of emergency rule, expectations are high that the Rivers Assembly will set the tone for reconciliation, stability, and a renewed focus on the state’s development.
