By Seyi Odewale
The Rivers State House of Assembly on Wednesday adopted a resolution calling on President Bola Tinubu to pursue a second term in office.
The decision followed a motion introduced by House Leader Major Jack, who said the proposal was aimed at acknowledging Tinubu’s efforts in “steering the ship” of the nation in the “right direction”.
Jack, who represents Akuku-Toru I Constituency, urged the chamber to formally appeal to Tinubu to enter the 2027 presidential race, citing what he described as the President’s “leadership and love for Rivers State”.
No fewer than 15 lawmakers co-sponsored the motion.
During the debate on the motion, every member who spoke supported it.
Dumle Maol, representing Gokana Constituency, told colleagues that six persons from his constituency had been appointed to federal positions by Tinubu.
Maol said his constituents instructed him to endorse the motion because of what they consider positive gains under the current administration. He maintained that the President merits another tenure.
“My people have asked me to support this motion. The house should call on the President to contest again because you cannot change a winning team,” he said.
Deputy House Leader Linda Somiari-Stewart also aligned with the motion’s prayers, insisting that Tinubu has delivered credibly as President.
“This motion is timely. The vote of confidence is not a mere ceremonial expression. It is a declaration that is solemn and weighty, and made when the nation demands stability, freedom, and leadership,” she said.
The Speaker, Martins Amaewhule, added that the legislature stands firmly behind the Tinubu administration and will not engage in criticism of the federal government.
“The President is doing the needful (in terms of security). It is not enough to talk down on the federal government,” he said.
“All hands need to be on deck. We need to help our security agencies. Everybody needs to share information about criminals’ whereabouts.
“For us, our job is to pray for Mr President for good health, strength, and wisdom to pilot the affairs of this country. We won’t join those who are de-marketing this country. We’d rather join those praying for the country.”
The motion was eventually approved through a voice vote.
President Tinubu had declared a state of emergency in Rivers State on March 18, citing political turmoil and a breakdown in governance.
Under the proclamation, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all members of the state assembly were suspended for an initial period of six months.
Tinubu also appointed retired naval officer Ibok-Ete Ibas as the sole administrator of the state.
The emergency rule ended on September 17, 2025.
