Tinubu Declares State Of Emergency In Rivers State, Governor, Assembly Suspended

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State today, citing a persistent political crisis and a breakdown in governance. The speech was broadcast nationwide.

The declaration, which is effective immediately, suspends Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for six months.

President Tinubu justified the drastic measure by citing prolonged political turmoil, the demolition of the State House of Assembly in 2023, and a recent Supreme Court ruling that highlighted Governor Fubara’s “grave unconstitutional acts.”

He emphasised his previous attempts to mediate the dispute, as well as the efforts of other well-meaning Nigerians, and lamented their failure.

“With all of these and many more, no good and responsible President will stand by and allow the grave situation to continue without taking the remedial steps prescribed by the Constitution.”

President Tinubu stated during his speech. He specifically cited the Supreme Court ruling, which determined that the Governor’s actions effectively dismantled the legislative branch of government.

The President also expressed concern about alleged threats by militants supporting the Governor and recent reports of pipeline vandalism, which he claimed the Governor had ignored.

President Tinubu has appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas to serve as Administrator of Rivers State during the state of emergency.

Vice Admiral Ibas, a decorated naval officer who served as Chief of Naval Staff from 2015 to 2021, is in charge of restoring “good governance, peace, order, and security” to the troubled state.

The declaration explicitly excludes Rivers State’s judicial branch, which will continue to function in accordance with the constitution.

According to the President, the Administrator will not create new laws, but will be able to develop regulations to carry out his duties, subject to the approval of the federal executive council.

The declaration was published in the Federal Gazette and forwarded to the National Assembly, as required by the Constitution.

Reactions and analysis:

The declaration of a state of emergency is likely to elicit mixed reactions. While some may see it as a necessary intervention to restore stability and functionality to Rivers State, others will likely regard it as an abuse of federal power and a violation of democratic principles.

Political analysts are already debating the declaration’s constitutional implications and potential legal challenges.

The Supreme Court’s pronouncements are being questioned for their legitimacy and the extent to which they justified federal intervention.

The immediate impact on Rivers State is unknown, but Vice Admiral Ibas faces a significant challenge in navigating the complex political landscape while also restoring public trust in the administration.

The next few days and weeks will be critical in determining the success of this intervention and its impact on the future of Rivers State.