By Hobnop News
March 19, 2025
In a decisive move addressing escalating political unrest and security challenges, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State on March 18, 2025. This unprecedented action includes the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the State House of Assembly for an initial period of six months.
Backdrop of Political Crisis
The political landscape in Rivers State has been fraught with tension since October 2023, primarily due to a rift between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, now serving as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. This discord culminated in the demolition of the State House of Assembly complex in December 2023, an action attributed to Fubara’s administration. Despite interventions by President Tinubu and other stakeholders, the crisis persisted, leading to a paralysis of governance and heightened insecurity in the state.
Judicial Interventions and Legislative Stalemate
The Supreme Court, on February 28, 2025, addressed the constitutional breaches in Rivers State, emphasizing the necessity of a functioning legislative arm for a valid government. The court’s judgment underscored that the absence of a legislative body, due to the governor’s actions, rendered the state’s governance structure unconstitutional. Despite the court’s directives to restore legislative functions and pass an appropriation bill, compliance was not achieved, further exacerbating the governance vacuum.
Escalation of Security Concerns
Compounding the political impasse, recent security reports indicated alarming incidents of pipeline vandalism by militant groups within Rivers State. Notably, a fire outbreak occurred on the Trans Niger Pipeline, a critical oil transportation route, raising significant concerns about the state’s security apparatus and the governor’s inaction in addressing these threats.
Federal Intervention and Appointment of Administrator
Invoking Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, President Tinubu declared the state of emergency, stating, “With all these and many more, no good and responsible President will standby and allow the grave situation to continue without taking remedial steps prescribed by the Constitution to address the situation in the state.” Consequently, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd) has been appointed as the Administrator to oversee the state’s affairs during this period. The judiciary remains functional to ensure the rule of law is maintained.
National and International Reactions
This development marks the first declaration of a state of emergency in Nigeria in over a decade, drawing varied reactions from political analysts and international observers. While some view it as a necessary step to restore order and governance in Rivers State, others express concerns about the implications for democratic processes and federal-state relations.
Conclusion
As Rivers State navigates this challenging period, the focus remains on restoring peace, ensuring security, and re-establishing effective governance structures. The federal government’s intervention underscores the critical importance of constitutional adherence and proactive measures in addressing state-level crises.
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