President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declares state of emergency in Rivers State
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared a state of emergency in Rivers State due to the ongoing political crisis, which has stalled governance and deprived citizens of democratic benefits. He cited the prolonged dispute between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the House of Assembly, including the governor’s failure to rebuild the demolished Assembly complex and his refusal to cooperate with lawmakers.
Despite multiple interventions, including a Supreme Court ruling affirming the legitimacy of 27 lawmakers, the crisis persisted. The governor has also been linked to militant activities, with reports of pipeline vandalization and security threats. Given the breakdown of governance, Tinubu invoked Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution to declare a state of emergency.
Effective March 18, 2025, Governor Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all elected House members are suspended for six months. Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) has been appointed as the Administrator to oversee the state’s affairs, excluding judicial functions. He will operate under federal supervision without enacting new laws.
Tinubu expressed hope that this intervention would restore peace and constitutional order in Rivers State, urging all political players to adhere to democratic principles for the state’s stability and governance.
