Tinubu declares State of Emergency in Rivers, suspends Fubara, appoints former Naval Chief as administrator
President Bola Tinubu has declared a state of emergency in Rivers State following escalating political instability and security concerns.
In a nationwide broadcast on Tuesday, the president announced the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, Ngozi Odu, and all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for an initial period of six months.
Tinubu cited recent security reports detailing acts of pipeline vandalism by militants as a key factor in his decision. He criticized the state government’s inaction, stating that the governor had failed to take necessary measures to address the situation.
“The latest security reports made available to me show that between yesterday and today, there have been disturbing incidents of vandalization of pipelines by some militants without the governor taking any action to curtail them,” Tinubu said in his address. “I have, of course, given stern orders to the security agencies to ensure the safety of lives of the good people of Rivers State and the oil pipelines.”
The president emphasized that his decision was made in accordance with the Nigerian Constitution. “No good and responsible President will stand by and allow the grave situation to continue without taking remedial steps prescribed by the Constitution,” he stated.
Citing Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), Tinubu said he was compelled to take extraordinary measures to restore peace, order, and good governance in the state.
Vice Admiral Ibas Appointed Administrator of Rivers
Following the declaration, President Tinubu appointed Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as the administrator of Rivers State. Ibas, a former Chief of Naval Staff, will oversee the state’s affairs for at least six months.
The president clarified that the state of emergency does not affect the judiciary in Rivers State, which will continue to function as mandated by the Constitution.
The move has sparked widespread reactions from political stakeholders, civil society groups, and the general public, with many awaiting further details on the implementation of the emergency measures.
