The House of Representatives’ 21-member Ad-Hoc Committee, constituted to oversee governance in Rivers State following the declaration of emergency rule by President Bola Tinubu, is yet to be briefed on how to carry out its mandate. 

President Tinubu declared a six-month emergency rule in Rivers State on March 18, 2025, after a prolonged political crisis between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the State House of Assembly.

He suspended both parties and appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as Sole Administrator—a move ratified by both chambers of the National Assembly.

Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, inaugurated the committee on Tuesday at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja, appointing House Leader, Professor Julius Ihonvbere, as Chairman.

Despite the formal inauguration, members say they are yet to receive clear directives.

Patrick Umoh, representing Ikot Ekpene/Essien Udim/Obot Akara Federal Constituency of Akwa Ibom State, said: “The committee has just been inaugurated today (Tuesday). We are yet to be fully briefed on the modalities and rules of engagement. We hope the clarifications will be provided in due course.”

Another member, who spoke on condition of anonymity, added that the maiden meeting was largely ceremonial:

“Nothing took place at the meeting. We listened to the charge by the Speaker during the inauguration and we are prepared to hit the ground running. The meeting was for members to familiarise with one another.”