In an unprecedented move, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Tuesday declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, amidst the protracted political crisis that has crippled governance in the oil-rich state.
Addressing the nation in a televised broadcast, President Tinubu cited gross constitutional breaches, the demolition and non-reconstruction of the House of Assembly complex, collapse of the legislative arm, and escalating militant activities as key reasons behind his decisive intervention.
Tinubu accused Governor Fubara of deliberately collapsing the legislature to govern dictatorially, referencing the Supreme Court’s recent judgment which declared Rivers State effectively without a government due to the absence of its legislative arm. The apex court, ruling on eight consolidated appeals, condemned the governor’s unconstitutional acts and ordered the reinstatement of 27 lawmakers whom Fubara attempted to sideline.
The President revealed that despite repeated peace efforts, including personal interventions, all attempts to resolve the crisis amicably were rebuffed by the contending parties. Disturbingly, Tinubu noted recent security reports of vandalized oil pipelines and militant threats unchecked by the state government.
“No good and responsible President will stand by while a grave situation deteriorates without taking extraordinary measures,” Tinubu declared.
Invoking Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, Tinubu announced the suspension of the governor, deputy governor, and Assembly members for an initial period of six months. Retired Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas was appointed as the state’s sole Administrator to restore peace, order, and good governance.
While the judiciary will continue functioning, Tinubu stated that Ibas is empowered to make necessary regulations, subject to Federal Executive Council approval, but cannot pass new laws.
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“This intervention is inevitable to rescue Rivers State from political chaos and ensure democratic order is restored,” Tinubu concluded, reaffirming his commitment to a united, peaceful, and democratic Nigeria.
