By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
On March 18, 2025, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State due to escalating political turmoil.
In a nationwide broadcast, Tinubu expressed his deep concern, stating he was “greatly disturbed about the political crisis” in the state, especially following Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s demolition of the State House of Assembly building.
As part of the emergency measures, Tinubu suspended Governor Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the state’s House of Assembly for a six-month period.
To oversee the state’s administration, Tinubu appointed Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) as the Administrator.
The president clarified that the judicial system in Rivers would remain unaffected by the emergency measures.
“The Administrator will not make any new laws,” Tinubu explained, adding, “He will be free to formulate regulations as necessary, but they will require approval from the Federal Executive Council and will be promulgated by the President for the state.”
This move followed a high-level meeting at the Presidential Villa, attended by key officials, including the service chiefs and national lawmakers, signaling the urgency of the situation.
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