By Christiana Ekpa
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajuddeen, on Tuesday inaugurated a 21-member ad-hoc committee to oversee the administration of Rivers State during the six-month state of emergency declared by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Describing the assignment as a “mission of national significance,” the Speaker issued a stern warning to members of the committee to steer clear of partisan interests, noting that the country and the world would be watching their every step.
“This task is not routine; it is a mission of national significance that will serve as a litmus test for our commitment to democratic principles and constitutional governance,” Abbas declared. “The eyes of all Nigerians are upon us, and it is incumbent upon this House, particularly on the Chairman and all members of this esteemed Committee, to rise to this historic challenge with courage, integrity, and determination.”
The committee is chaired by House Leader, Prof Julius Ihonvbere, with Rep Ali Isa J.C. serving as deputy chairman. Initially comprising 19 members, two more lawmakers were added during the inauguration, bringing the total to 21.
Abbas stressed that the committee’s core mandate is to ensure that the caretaker government implements federal directives and policies in line with constitutional provisions, and that public resources are managed transparently and accountably.
“You must conduct your oversight in strict accordance with the Constitution and avoid all forms of partisanship or bias. It is imperative that you monitor every aspect of the caretaker administration’s conduct, scrutinise public expenditures, and ensure that all federal directives and policies are implemented as intended,” he said.
He also instructed the committee to report its findings to the House regularly to enable continuous assessment of the situation and allow for further legislative action if necessary.
He added that the committee’s work must not only uphold the constitution but also contribute to rebuilding public trust and fostering reconciliation in Rivers State.
“Your work must actively support efforts to restore lasting peace and re-establish a fully functioning democratic system in Rivers State. This historic responsibility calls for conscientious, forthright, and astute governance that will set a benchmark for oversight functions by the National Assembly in the future,” he said.
