Port Harcourt, Nigeria — Hobnob News
In an unprecedented turn of events, the political crisis in Rivers State escalated dramatically on Tuesday evening as Nigerian soldiers seized control of the Rivers State Government House in Port Harcourt, mere hours after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declared a state of emergency in the oil-rich state.
Around 9:00 p.m., heavily armed troops moved into the Government House, establishing a strong military presence. An Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC) was strategically positioned at the entrance along Azikiwe Road, a move that further heightened the tension among residents. It remains uncertain whether Governor Siminalayi Fubara was present in his official residence at the time of the military takeover.
The swift deployment of troops followed President Tinubu’s nationwide broadcast, where he addressed the protracted political stalemate between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, now Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. According to the President, the political conflict had resisted all attempts at a peaceful resolution and posed a threat to law, order, and governance in the state.
“By this declaration,” Tinubu said, “the Governor of Rivers State, Mr Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, Mrs Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly are hereby suspended for six months.”
In a bold move, the President appointed Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (retired) as the interim Administrator to oversee the state’s affairs during the emergency period. Tinubu emphasized that the judiciary in Rivers State would remain unaffected and continue to operate within its constitutional mandate.
As news of the declaration spread, panic gripped Port Harcourt. Residents and motorists hastily made their way home, fearing an imminent breakdown of law and order. Many shops and businesses were abruptly closed as the city braced for potential unrest.
In a swift response, Governor Fubara issued a statement urging calm among the populace. He reassured citizens of his commitment to constitutional order and pledged to engage with national institutions to safeguard democratic principles. His statement read in part:
“My dear Rivers People, I address you today with a deep sense of responsibility and calm as we navigate this unfortunate moment in our state’s political history. Since assuming office as your governor, all my actions and decisions have been guided by my constitutional oath of office and a great sense of duty. We have prioritised the protection of lives and property and ensured the continuous progress of our dear state.
Even in the face of the political impasse, we have remained committed to constitutional order and the rule of law, putting the interest of our people above all else.”
Fubara further accused lawmakers loyal to former governor Wike of obstructing his efforts to implement the Supreme Court’s rulings and uphold constitutional governance.
Political analysts, stakeholders, and legal experts have sharply criticised Tinubu’s decision, labeling it undemocratic and a potential overreach of executive powers. Many have raised concerns about the constitutional implications of suspending elected officials and replacing them with an appointed administrator.
As Rivers State enters this uncertain chapter, questions linger about the long-term impact of the state of emergency on democracy, governance, and public trust. The coming days are expected to be critical as both state and federal actors navigate the unfolding crisis.
