President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the State House of Assembly for an initial period of six months.
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In a nationwide address, President Tinubu expressed deep concern over the prolonged political crisis in Rivers State, citing governance paralysis, constitutional violations, and security threats as reasons for the drastic measure. He noted that despite multiple mediation efforts, the crisis had persisted, leaving the state in turmoil.
To restore stability and ensure governance continuity, Tinubu appointed former Chief of Naval Staff and ex-Nigerian Ambassador to Ghana, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd), as the Administrator of Rivers State. Ibas will oversee the state’s affairs during the emergency period but will not be permitted to enact new laws, except regulations subject to federal approval.
The President referenced the Supreme Court’s recent ruling, which criticized the collapse of the Rivers State legislature and declared that “there is no government in Rivers State.” He also highlighted reports of militant activities, including pipeline vandalism, and accused the governor of failing to address the security concerns.
Tinubu emphasized that the emergency declaration does not affect the judiciary, which will continue its constitutional functions. He reassured Nigerians that this intervention aims to restore peace, governance, and constitutional order in Rivers State.
The proclamation has been published in the Federal Gazette and submitted to the National Assembly for ratification, as required by the Constitution.
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