In a decisive move to restore order in Rivers State, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared a state of emergency, suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all members of the state House of Assembly for six months.
The announcement came just hours after Tinubu met with service chiefs and National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu in Abuja. In a nationwide broadcast on Tuesday, the president cited escalating security threats, political instability, and vandalization of critical oil infrastructure as key reasons for the emergency measure.
To oversee the state during the emergency period, Tinubu appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas as the military administrator. His mandate includes maintaining public order and ensuring the smooth functioning of essential government services. However, the judicial arm of the state will continue its duties as prescribed by the constitution.
Relying on Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, Tinubu justified his decision as a constitutional measure necessary to curb the growing crisis in the oil-rich state. This provision allows the president to suspend normal governance processes in times of national danger or security threats.
“For about two months, the political crisis in Rivers State has escalated beyond acceptable levels. Reports indicate rising insecurity, pipeline vandalism, and mass protests by civil servants against the Martins Amaewhule-led House of Assembly faction loyal to Nyesom Wike,” Tinubu stated.
Rivers State has been at the center of a prolonged political battle between FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and his former protégé, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, over control of the state’s political structure. The power struggle has triggered instability, with reports of pipeline explosions and increasing threats to public safety.
According to the president, “Security reports show that between yesterday and today, there have been disturbing incidents of pipeline vandalism by militants without any intervention from the governor. I have given stern orders to security agencies to protect the lives of Rivers State citizens and critical oil infrastructure.”
Implications of the State of Emergency
Under the emergency rule:
- The governor, deputy, and lawmakers are suspended for six months.
- The appointed administrator will oversee governance but cannot enact new laws.
- Any regulations made must be reviewed and approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) before implementation.
This emergency declaration marks a turning point in Nigeria’s political landscape, with Rivers State at the epicenter of a high-stakes battle for control. As the security situation unfolds, all eyes will be on how Vice Admiral Ibas navigates governance in the coming months.
Stay tuned for more updates as this developing story unfolds.
