In a shocking and unprecedented move, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared a State of Emergency in Rivers State, stripping the governor, deputy governor, and elected lawmakers of their positions. This decision, outlined in an Official Gazette, hands absolute power to Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd.), a retired military officer who will now govern the state under Tinubu’s direct command.
JUSTIFICATION OR POWER GRAB?
The gazette, titled “State of Emergency (Rivers State) Proclamation, 2025,” invokes Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, claiming there is a “clear and present danger” that threatens public safety, peace, and governance in Rivers State. It warns that if left unchecked, the situation could escalate into widespread chaos, destruction, and loss of lives.
Under these emergency measures:
Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and all elected members of the State House of Assembly are suspended.
Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd.) is appointed as the sole Administrator with full governing powers.
The Administrator will operate exclusively under regulations issued by President Tinubu.
OUTRAGE AS CRITICS DENOUNCE ATTACK ON DEMOCRACY
The declaration has triggered a political firestorm, with leaders across Nigeria condemning it as a brazen assault on democracy and an attempt to impose military rule. On March 20, 2025, the Nigerian Senate and House of Representatives quickly approved the six-month suspension of Rivers State’s government, drawing fierce criticism for what many see as legislative complicity in executive overreach.
Major political and civil rights groups, including Afenifere, the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), and several elder statesmen, have categorically rejected the emergency rule, accusing Tinubu of hijacking the democratic process.
The National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) has gone further, calling for the immediate resignation of the imposed Administrator and urging the people of Rivers State to resist any attempt to undermine their elected leadership.
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?
With national and international pressure mounting, Rivers State has become the epicenter of a major constitutional crisis. Will the people accept this forceful takeover, or will resistance escalate into full-scale confrontation?
As tensions rise, Nigeria’s democracy faces one of its biggest tests yet, and the world is watching closely to see what happens next.
