Rivers State Emergency: President Tinubu Steps In To Restore Governance

A Bold Move: President Tinubu Declares State of Emergency in Rivers State

In a bold and decisive move aimed at restoring peace and governance in Rivers State, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency on March 18, 2025. The decision comes after months of escalating political unrest and the failure of the state leadership to address the crisis effectively. It's a wake-up call for the region and a reminder of the importance of good governance.

Political Chaos: The Backstory

Let’s rewind a bit. The political landscape in Rivers State has been anything but smooth. Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his administration have been embroiled in a series of constitutional violations that have thrown the state into chaos. From the illegal dissolution of the state legislature to widespread unrest, it’s been a storm of dysfunction. Despite multiple attempts to intervene, including rulings from the Supreme Court, the situation only worsened, leaving the state in a governance vacuum.

Supreme Court Weighs In: A Government Without a Legislature?

In February 2025, the Supreme Court of Nigeria delivered a scathing judgment, declaring that Rivers State lacked a functional government due to Governor Fubara's actions. The court emphasized that a government cannot exist without all three branches functioning properly. Governor Fubara had effectively dismantled the state legislature, leaving the state in limbo. The court ruled that 27 members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, who allegedly defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), were still valid members and must be reinstated. Yet, despite this clear directive, the state leadership refused to act, particularly on passing the 2025 budget, leaving the people of Rivers State in limbo.

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State of Emergency: A Necessary Step

In a heartfelt address, President Tinubu laid bare the gravity of the situation. He expressed deep concern for the people of Rivers State, who have been denied the dividends of democracy due to this prolonged crisis. "The state has been at a standstill since the crisis began," he lamented. "The good people of Rivers State deserve better." Tinubu also highlighted the alarming rise in violence and vandalism, with militant groups wreaking havoc on pipelines, and Governor Fubara seemingly unable or unwilling to address the issue. "This cannot continue," Tinubu asserted.

Suspension of Leadership: A Six-Month Pause

In light of these mounting challenges, President Tinubu took the drastic step of suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for an initial period of six months. "It is my constitutional duty to act in the best interest of the people," Tinubu explained. "Section 305 of the Constitution empowers me to declare a state of emergency when governance fails, and that’s exactly what we’re dealing with here."

Appointment of a New Administrator: Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas Takes the Helm

To ensure the state’s affairs are managed effectively during this period, President Tinubu appointed Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) as the Administrator of Rivers State. Ibas is a seasoned leader with a reputation for integrity and efficiency. Tinubu clarified that while the Administrator won’t make new laws, he will have the authority to formulate necessary regulations, subject to approval by the Federal Executive Council. "Our goal is to stabilize the state, restore peace, and ensure the well-being of its people," Tinubu emphasized.

Judiciary Remains Unaffected: Upholding the Rule of Law

President Tinubu was keen to assure the people of Rivers State that the judiciary would remain fully operational and independent during the state of emergency. "This declaration does not impact the judicial arm of Rivers State," he stated. "The judiciary will continue to function as it always has, upholding the law and protecting the rights of all citizens." This commitment to the rule of law underscores the importance of maintaining balance and fairness, even in turbulent times.

The declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State marks a pivotal moment for the region. It’s a reminder that governance is about more than just politics—it’s about serving the people and ensuring their safety, prosperity, and dignity. Let’s hope this bold step leads to a brighter future for Rivers State and its resilient people.