In an unprecedented move, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared a six-month state of emergency in Rivers State, citing a deepening political crisis, constitutional breaches, and growing security concerns. The dramatic announcement followed an emergency meeting at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, where top security officials and National Assembly leaders deliberated on the escalating tension in the oil-rich state.
A State on the Brink
For months, Rivers State has been embroiled in a political standoff that has paralyzed governance and heightened fears of instability. The crisis, fueled by a bitter power struggle between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the legislative arm, reached a boiling point after a series of judicial pronouncements exposed blatant constitutional violations.
Among the most controversial developments was the demolition of the Rivers State House of Assembly on December 13, 2023—a move widely criticized as an attempt to stifle legislative oversight. Fourteen months later, the building remains in ruins, symbolizing the state’s deep-seated dysfunction.
The Supreme Court, in a damning verdict delivered on February 28, 2025, ruled that Rivers State had been operating without a functional government, accusing the governor of sidelining the legislative arm in a blatant abuse of power. The court’s ruling further invalidated claims that 27 defected lawmakers had lost their seats, affirming their right to resume legislative duties.
Yet, despite numerous interventions—including personal efforts by the President and appeals from well-meaning Nigerians—Governor Fubara and his allies remained defiant.
Security Crisis Escalates
As political tensions simmered, violence and sabotage erupted across the state. The situation took a deadly turn on Monday, March 17, 2025, when a powerful explosion ripped through the Trans Niger Pipeline in Bodo Community, Gokana Local Government Area. The blast, suspected to be an act of sabotage, sent shockwaves across the region, further stoking fears of unrest.
Reports from security agencies indicate that militants, emboldened by the lack of government action, have ramped up attacks on critical infrastructure. With the governor failing to rein in these elements—or even condemn their actions—President Tinubu saw no choice but to take decisive action.
The President’s Declaration
In a nationally televised address, Tinubu outlined the gravity of the situation, emphasizing that the failure of Rivers’ leadership to uphold constitutional governance necessitated federal intervention.
“No responsible President can stand by while a state descends into chaos,” he declared. “Having soberly reflected on the crisis and the failure of the Governor and his Deputy to seek presidential intervention as required by law, I am invoking Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State, effective immediately.”
Immediate Consequence
With this proclamation:
Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his Deputy Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the House of Assembly are suspended for an initial period of six months.
Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd.) has been appointed as the Administrator of Rivers State to oversee governance and restore stability.
The judicial arm of government remains unaffected, ensuring that legal proceedings and the rights of citizens continue to be upheld.
The Administrator will not create new laws but will have the authority to implement necessary regulations, subject to approval by the Federal Executive Council.
The Road Ahead
This extraordinary intervention marks a historic turning point for Rivers State. While some see it as a necessary measure to restore order, others fear it could set a dangerous precedent for federal overreach in state affairs.
One thing remains clear: the crisis in Rivers is far from over, and the next six months will determine whether the state can emerge from this turmoil stronger—or more fractured than ever.
A Nation Watches
As Nigerians process this monumental decision, the spotlight is now firmly on Rivers State. Will this intervention bring the much-needed stability, or will it trigger an even deeper political storm?Only time will tell.
