President Bola Tinubu has declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all members of the state House of Assembly for six months. This move follows a prolonged political crisis and rising security concerns, including pipeline explosions.
The President made the announcement during a nationwide broadcast on Tuesday, citing the failure of local authorities to address escalating violence and unrest.
Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (rtd) has been appointed as the military administrator to oversee the state for the duration of the emergency. The declaration, based on Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, allows the federal government to restore order and security in the region. The President urged all political leaders in the state to adhere to constitutional mandates and cooperate to ensure peace.
This intervention marks a significant step in addressing the unrest that has plagued the oil-rich state.
