ABUJA, Nigeria — President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, citing the escalating political crisis in the state.
In a nationwide broadcast, the president announced the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Odu, for six months, alongside the suspension of all elected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly.
Tinubu expressed deep concern over the political turmoil in Rivers State, accusing Governor Fubara of demolishing the State House of Assembly building.
“I am greatly disturbed about the political crisis in Rivers State,” the president said. “Having made an evaluation of the situation, I have decided to declare a state of emergency from March 18.”
To oversee the state’s affairs during the emergency period, Tinubu nominated Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) as Administrator.
The president clarified that the declaration does not affect the judicial arm of Rivers State, which will continue to function in accordance with its constitutional mandate.
“The Administrator will not make any new laws. He will, however, be free to formulate regulations as may be found necessary to do his job, but such regulations will need to be considered and approved by the Federal Executive Council and promulgated by the President for the state,” Tinubu stated.
The decision followed a meeting between President Tinubu, his service chiefs, and the Inspector-General of Police at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa.
The meeting, which began around 3 p.m., was also attended by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, and Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu.
The political crisis in Rivers State has been escalating in recent weeks, with tensions between Governor Fubara and the state legislature reaching a boiling point.
The demolition of the State House of Assembly building, allegedly ordered by the governor, has been a major flashpoint, drawing widespread condemnation and raising concerns about the rule of law in the state.
President Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency marks a significant intervention in the crisis, aimed at restoring order and stability.
The suspension of the governor, deputy governor, and state lawmakers underscores the federal government’s determination to address the situation decisively.
The appointment of Vice Admiral Ibas as Administrator is expected to bring a measure of stability to the state.
A retired naval officer with extensive experience in leadership and administration, Ibas is tasked with overseeing the state’s affairs and ensuring the implementation of necessary regulations to restore normalcy.
The declaration has sparked mixed reactions across the country.
While some have welcomed the federal government’s intervention as a necessary step to address the crisis, others have expressed concerns about the implications for democracy and governance in Rivers State.
As the state enters a period of emergency rule, stakeholders are calling for transparency, accountability, and a swift resolution to the crisis.
The federal government’s actions will be closely watched, with many hoping for a peaceful and lasting solution to the political impasse in Rivers State.
The suspension of Governor Fubara and his administration marks a pivotal moment in the state’s political history.
As Vice Admiral Ibas assumes his role as Administrator, the focus will be on restoring stability, upholding the rule of law, and addressing the underlying issues that have fueled the crisis.
President Tinubu’s declaration underscores the federal government’s commitment to maintaining peace and order across the country.
However, the long-term impact of this intervention on Rivers State’s political landscape remains to be seen.
