President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, citing “prolonged political instability, constitutional breaches, and escalating security threats.” The declaration, which takes immediate effect, suspends Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for an initial period of six months.
In a national broadcast on Tuesday, Tinubu expressed deep concern over the crisis, stating that despite multiple interventions, including his own efforts, no resolution had been reached.
“The state has been at a standstill since the crisis began, depriving the people of Rivers State of the dividends of democracy,” he said.
The crisis intensified after the December 13, 2023, demolition of the Rivers State House of Assembly by the governor, with no efforts made to rebuild it over the past 14 months. In a ruling on February 28, 2025, the Supreme Court condemned Fubara’s actions, declaring his decision to govern without a legislature unconstitutional.
The court further ruled that the 27 lawmakers who allegedly defected from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) remain valid members of the Rivers State House of Assembly and should not be barred from legislative duties. It also mandated the immediate passage of an Appropriation Bill, which has yet to be executed.
President Tinubu also raised alarm over recent security threats, including reports of militants vandalizing oil pipelines and threatening perceived opponents of the governor. Security agencies have been directed to protect lives and critical infrastructure in the state.
“No responsible President can stand by and allow this grave situation to persist without taking remedial steps,” Tinubu stated.
To restore stability, Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) has been appointed as the Administrator of Rivers State. Tinubu clarified that while the judiciary would continue to function, the administrator would not enact new laws but could introduce necessary regulations, subject to Federal Executive Council approval.
The declaration has been published in the Federal Gazette and forwarded to the National Assembly, in accordance with the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
“It is my fervent hope that this intervention will help restore peace and order in Rivers State and reaffirm constitutional governance across Nigeria,” Tinubu concluded.
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