RIVERS: Tinubu declares state of emergency, suspends governor Fubara

The announcement came after a meeting with service chiefs and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu in Abuja.

During a nationwide broadcast today, Tinubu suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all House of Assembly members for six months.

Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (rtd) has been appointed as the state’s administrator for the period.

Citing Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, the president justified his decision by describing the situation as one requiring extraordinary measures to restore governance, peace, and security.

A state of emergency grants the president the power to implement regulations ensuring public safety.

The crisis in Rivers State has escalated over the past two months, with a power struggle between Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Nyesom Wike and his former ally, Governor Fubara.

Reports of pipeline vandalism and threats of mass protests by civil servants further intensified the situation.

Tinubu stated that security reports indicated acts of vandalism had occurred without intervention from the governor.

He emphasized that no responsible leader could ignore such threats to public safety.

The judicial system remains unaffected and will continue operating as usual.

The administrator cannot create new laws but may introduce necessary regulations subject to approval by the Federal Executive Council.

Tinubu expressed hope that the intervention would restore stability in Rivers State and serve as a reminder of constitutional responsibilities to political stakeholders.

The declaration has been officially published in the Federal Gazette and forwarded to the National Assembly.