President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared a state of emergency in Rivers State following prolonged political and security crises.
The declaration, made in a national broadcast, comes amid ongoing tensions between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the state legislature, which have resulted in governance paralysis.
Citing constitutional violations, the demolition of the state House of Assembly, and failure to restore democratic order despite Supreme Court rulings, President Tinubu announced the suspension of Governor Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the state legislature for an initial six-month period.
To restore order, the President appointed Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) as the Administrator of Rivers State. The judiciary, however, remains unaffected and will continue to function as mandated by the constitution.
President Tinubu emphasized that the move aims to protect the lives and property of Rivers residents and ensure the continuity of governance. He assured that the emergency measures have been gazetted and submitted to the National Assembly for constitutional backing.
The declaration follows reports of escalating violence, including pipeline vandalization and threats from militant groups. The President urged all stakeholders to uphold democratic principles and work towards a peaceful resolution of the crisis
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