Normalcy is gradually returning to Rivers State as the House of Assembly on Thursday held its first plenary sitting following the lifting of the emergency rule by Tinubu.
The lawmakers convened at about 10 a.m. at the Conference Hall of the Legislative Quarters along Aba Road, where they have been meeting temporarily. The session was presided over by the Speaker, Martin Amaewhule.
This marks the first official legislative business since the President’s announcement on Wednesday that brought the state’s emergency period to an end and restored full democratic governance.
A source within the Assembly confirmed to reporters that the agenda of the sitting included discussions on pending motions and oversight responsibilities suspended during the period of emergency rule.
Although details of the deliberations were not immediately made public, observers described the sitting as a significant step in reaffirming the authority of the Assembly and stabilising governance in the oil-rich state.
Residents also expressed relief at the development, noting that the return of legislative activities was a signal of improved political stability.
One resident, Emmanuel Briggs, told journalists, “We are happy to see our lawmakers back in plenary. The Assembly is the voice of the people, and its return means democracy is finding its footing again in Rivers State.”
Another political commentator, Mrs. Caroline Amadi, added, “The lifting of emergency rule should mark the beginning of reconciliation and proper governance in Rivers. The Assembly must now focus on passing laws that address insecurity, unemployment, and development gaps that worsened during the crisis.”
