On March 18, 2025, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, announced a state of emergency in Rivers State amidst ongoing political turmoil. During a broadcast, the President expressed deep concern over the persistent crisis in the state, emphasizing that the current situation has hindered democratic governance and the delivery of essential services to the citizens.
The President highlighted the alarming actions taken by Governor Siminalayi Fubara, who, for reasons deemed unjustifiable, demolished the state’s House of Assembly on December 13, 2023. Despite various interventions aimed at resolving the crisis, including efforts by prominent Nigerians and political leaders, no progress has been made, leading to the current state of impasse.
A pivotal moment came on February 28, 2025, when the Supreme Court delivered a judgment underscoring the constitutional breaches committed by the Governor. The court’s ruling stated that the Governor’s actions had effectively dismantled the legislative arm of the government, rendering the administration non-functional. The court affirmed that 27 members of the House of Assembly, previously alleged to have defected, remain valid members and must be allowed to participate in the legislative process.
In light of these developments, President Tinubu invoked Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, declaring a state of emergency effective immediately. This proclamation suspends Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and all elected members of the House of Assembly for an initial period of six months. To manage the state’s affairs during this period, Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) has been appointed as Administrator.
The President assured that this declaration would not interfere with the judiciary’s operations, which will continue to uphold their constitutional duties. The Administrator is tasked with managing the state’s affairs but will not have the authority to enact new laws without approval from the Federal Executive Council.
This decisive action aims to restore peace and order in Rivers State, encouraging all parties involved to adhere to constitutional mandates and work collaboratively for the betterment of the people.
For updates on this developing story, stay tuned to Newspot Nigeria.
