President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State on Tuesday evening in a nationwide broadcast, citing the need to restore law and order.
As part of the emergency measures, he announced the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Mrs. Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for an initial period of six months.
Tinubu appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas as the state’s administrator to oversee its affairs.
Military Presence at Government House
Shortly after the declaration, soldiers took control of the Rivers State Government House in Port Harcourt. According to an insider, Governor Fubara was still in his official residence when troops arrived at the premises around 9 pm.
“As I speak to you now, soldiers are inside Government House, but the governor remains in his residence,” the source disclosed.
An Armoured Personnel Carrier was stationed at the entrance of the Government House, overseeing the road, while multiple SUVs with their headlights on were spotted outside the main gate. It was unclear whether the governor was preparing to leave.
Tension Grips Port Harcourt
Across the Port Harcourt metropolis, residents and motorists hurried home upon hearing news of the emergency declaration. Many gathered in groups on the streets, expressing concerns over the situation and blaming political actors for the crisis.
Tinubu Defends Decision
In his address, President Tinubu expressed concern over the deteriorating political situation in Rivers State, which he said had defied political resolutions, hindered development, and deprived the people of democratic dividends.
“After careful evaluation and reflection, and in the absence of a formal request from the Governor and Deputy Governor as required by Section 305(5) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), I am left with no choice but to invoke Section 305 to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State, effective today, March 18, 2025,” Tinubu announced.
He emphasized that the judicial arm of government in Rivers State would remain unaffected and continue to function as mandated by the Constitution. While the administrator would not have the authority to make new laws, he could propose necessary regulations, subject to approval by the Federal Executive Council and promulgation by the President.
The proclamation, Tinubu added, had been officially published in the Federal Gazette and forwarded to the National Assembly in line with constitutional requirements.
“This necessary intervention aims to restore peace and order in Rivers State and remind all political stakeholders of their constitutional responsibilities,” he stated.
Emergency Meeting at Aso Rock
The declaration followed an emergency security meeting convened by President Tinubu at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa, prompted by twin explosions at oil pipelines in Rivers State.
Attendees included National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Director-General of the State Security Service Adeola Ajayi, National Intelligence Agency Chief Mohammed Mohammed, and Inspector-General of Police. Also present were Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, and other senior government officials.
