UPDATED: Tinubu Declares State Of Emergency In Rivers, Suspends Governor Fubara, Deputy, Lawmakers

President Bola Tinubu has declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, citing escalating political tensions and security threats. In a decisive move, he announced the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the state House of Assembly for an initial period of six months.

The President made this declaration during a nationwide broadcast on Tuesday, emphasizing the need to restore order in the oil-rich South-South state. The crisis in Rivers has been fueled by an ongoing rift between the governor and state lawmakers, coupled with recent acts of pipeline vandalism by militants.

Addressing the nation, President Tinubu expressed grave concerns over the deteriorating situation in Rivers, stating that “no responsible leader can afford to watch such instability spiral out of control.” He underscored that the governor’s inaction amid the political turmoil and security threats necessitated urgent intervention.

To oversee governance during the emergency period, Tinubu appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as the state’s administrator. He assured Rivers residents that the judicial arm of government would continue functioning in line with its constitutional mandate.

“This decision is to ensure the safety of lives and property, as well as restore normalcy to Rivers State,” Tinubu declared.

Recommended News:

• Ogun APC Women Leaders Demand Female Successor For Late Rep. Ijaya, Appeal To Governor Abiodun
• Hon. Arole Azeez Bello Hosts Iftar Dinner, Declares Bid For House Of Reps Seat
• Zamfara: Gov Lawal Give N50m To Former Governors

Citing Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, Tinubu confirmed that the proclamation has been published in the Federal Gazette and forwarded to the National Assembly for ratification. The move is expected to generate heated debates among legal and political analysts.

Rivers State has been embroiled in political instability, with lawmakers threatening to impeach Governor Fubara amid factional divisions within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The crisis has been worsened by reports of increased militant activities, including pipeline vandalism.

With this emergency measure, Tinubu aims to stabilize one of Nigeria’s key economic hubs, but the decision is already sparking reactions from legal experts and opposition figures questioning its constitutionality.

As Nigeria watches closely, all eyes are now on the National Assembly and the affected political stakeholders. Will this intervention bring lasting peace to Rivers, or will it ignite further political battles?