President Tinubu Declares State Of Emergency In Rivers State.
President Bola Tinubu has declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, citing prolonged political instability and security concerns. The declaration, effective from 18th March 2025, comes after months of unresolved tensions between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and members of the state’s House of Assembly.
In his address to the nation, President Tinubu expressed deep concern over the crisis, stating that efforts by various stakeholders, including his personal interventions, had failed to resolve the situation. He emphasised that democratic governance cannot thrive amid such political turmoil, which has stalled development in the oil-rich state.
A key factor leading to the decision was the Supreme Court’s recent ruling on 28th February 2025, which criticised the governor’s actions, particularly the demolition of the state House of Assembly in December 2023. The court stated that Rivers State effectively lacked a functioning government, as the legislative arm had been rendered inoperative.
Additionally, the president cited fresh security threats, including recent acts of vandalism on oil pipelines by militants. He noted that these incidents, coupled with the government’s failure to act decisively, necessitated urgent intervention.
As part of the state of emergency measures, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly have been suspended for an initial period of six months. In their place, President Tinubu has appointed Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) as the Administrator to oversee the state’s affairs. The judiciary, however, will continue to function as per its constitutional mandate.
The Administrator will not enact new laws but will be permitted to formulate necessary regulations, subject to approval by the Federal Executive Council and promulgation by the President.
President Tinubu assured Nigerians that this intervention aims to restore peace, order, and constitutional governance in Rivers State. He called on all political actors to adhere to democratic principles and work towards stability in both the state and the country.
