In a decisive move to address escalating political unrest and security concerns, President Bola Tinubu has declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, effective immediately. This unprecedented action includes the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all members of the State House of Assembly for an initial period of six months. Retired Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas has been appointed as the sole administrator to oversee the state’s affairs during this period.
The President’s decision comes in response to a prolonged political crisis that has paralyzed governance in the oil-rich state. Tensions have been high between Governor Fubara and state lawmakers, culminating in the demolition of the House of Assembly complex in December 2023—a structure that remains unrebuilt fourteen months later. The Supreme Court recently criticized the governor’s actions, stating that a government cannot function without all three branches and highlighting the collapse of the legislative arm under Fubara’s administration.
Compounding the political instability, Rivers State has experienced recent acts of pipeline vandalism by militant groups. Notably, a fire on the Trans Niger Pipeline, a critical conduit for crude oil transportation, has raised significant security and economic concerns. President Tinubu expressed alarm over these developments, citing the governor’s inaction in addressing the sabotage and the broader implications for national security.
In his nationwide address, President Tinubu emphasized that the state’s paralysis has deprived its citizens of democratic dividends and necessitated federal intervention. He assured that the judicial arm of Rivers State would continue to function independently during the emergency period. The President has submitted the emergency proclamation to the National Assembly for approval, as mandated by the constitution.
The appointment of Vice Admiral Ibas as the administrator aims to restore order and ensure the effective delivery of governance in Rivers State. The federal government has also directed security agencies to protect lives, property, and critical infrastructure in the region.
This development marks a significant intervention by the federal government to stabilize a key state in Nigeria’s Niger Delta, underscoring the administration’s commitment to upholding constitutional governance and security.
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