Tinubu Suspends Governor Fubara and House of Assembly Declares State of Emergency in Rivers state
By Abdulhamid Sani
In a shocking move, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, citing a breakdown in governance and security. The declaration, made on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, suspends Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and all elected members of the House of Assembly for an initial period of six months.
The decision comes after a prolonged political crisis in the state, marked by a standoff between the governor and the legislature. The Supreme Court had earlier ruled that the governor’s actions were unconstitutional and had effectively collapsed the legislature.
Background of the Crisis
The crisis began when Governor Fubara demolished the House of Assembly complex in December 2023 and failed to rebuild it. Despite interventions by the President and other stakeholders, the situation continued to deteriorate, with reports of vandalism and militancy.
Consequences of the Declaration
The state of emergency declaration gives the President the power to appoint an administrator to oversee the affairs of the state. Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) has been nominated for the role. The administrator will not have the power to make new laws but can formulate regulations subject to approval by the Federal Executive Council and the President.
The declaration does not affect the judicial arm of Rivers State, which will continue to function as usual. The President has expressed hope that the intervention will restore peace and order in the state and promote democratic governance.
Reaction and Implications
The move is likely to have significant implications for the politics of Rivers State and the country as a whole. The opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has yet to react to the development, but it is expected to be a major talking point in the coming days.
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