Tinubu Declares State of Emergency in Rivers, Suspends Gov. Fubara, State Assembly
President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the State House of Assembly for an initial period of six months.
In a nationwide broadcast, Tinubu cited the persistent political crisis in the state, failure of governance, and worsening security concerns, including pipeline vandalization, as reasons for the decision.
The president said his interventions and those of well-meaning Nigerians to resolve the crisis were ignored, and he emphasized the Supreme Court’s judgment, which declared that Rivers State was without a functioning government.
“As it is, there is no government in Rivers State,” Tinubu quoted the court as saying, noting that the executive had undermined the legislature by preventing the Assembly from functioning effectively.
Tinubu announced the appointment of Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) as the Administrator to oversee the affairs of the state. However, he clarified that the judiciary in Rivers State would continue to function normally.
“The Administrator will not make new laws but may formulate necessary regulations, subject to approval by the Federal Executive Council,” he said.
The president assured the people of Rivers State that the move was aimed at restoring peace, order, and good governance. He urged all political actors to adhere to constitutional principles and work towards stability in the state.
