State of emergency in Rivers: President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced a state of emergency in Rivers State due to the ongoing political crisis.
During a nationwide broadcast on Tuesday, March 18, President Tinubu revealed the suspension of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, Ngozi Odu, and all 27 elected members of the State House of Assembly for an initial six-month period.
‘’Fellow Nigerians, I am deeply concerned about the political crisis in Rivers State. Like many of you, I had hoped that the involved parties would come to a resolution, but unfortunately, that has not been the case.
The persistence of this crisis hinders democratic governance, which we have all fought for, from benefiting the people of the state. The state has been at a standstill since the crisis began, with the residents unable to enjoy the dividends of democracy.
Still on State of emergency in Rivers: The Governor of Rivers State, without justification, demolished the House of Assembly back on 13th December 2023 and has not rebuilt it, even 14 months later. Despite personal interventions and the efforts of many well-meaning Nigerians, Leaders of thought, and Patriotic groups, the crisis remains unresolved. I thank them for their efforts.
On February 28, 2025, the supreme court addressed eight consolidated appeals concerning the political crisis in Rivers State, highlighting several unconstitutional acts and the Governor’s disregard for the rule of law. The court stated that the collapse of the legislative arm by the Governor essentially left Rivers State without a functioning government.
Further judicial findings established that the 27 members of the House who allegedly defected are still valid members and cannot be barred from House proceedings by the Governor.
The Supreme Court issued orders to restore constitutional democracy, including facilitating the immediate passage of an Appropriation Bill by the Rivers State House of Assembly, which has not occurred.
Militants have threatened violence against perceived enemies of the Governor, whom he has not disowned. Both the House and the Governor have failed to work together for the state’s peace and good governance.
Recent security reports indicate vandalism of pipelines by militants, with no action from the Governor. I have instructed security agencies to ensure the safety of Rivers State residents and infrastructure.
Given the situation, no responsible President would stand by and allow it to continue without taking constitutionally prescribed remedial steps. After careful evaluation and without a request from the Governor or Deputy Governor to declare an emergency, I am invoking section 305 of the Constitution to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State starting today, March 18, 2025.
By this declaration, the Governor, Deputy, and all elected members of the House of Assembly are suspended for six months.
Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) is nominated as Administrator to manage the state’s affairs in the interest of its people. The judicial arm will continue to function, and the Administrator can formulate necessary regulations, subject to approval by the Federal Executive Council and the President.
This declaration is published in the Federal Gazette and forwarded to the National Assembly. I hope this intervention will restore peace and order in Rivers State, reminding all political players of their constitutional obligations in Rivers State and Nigeria.
Long live a united, peaceful, secure, and democratic Rivers State and Nigeria.”
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