Political Crisis in Rivers: Tinubu Suspends Governor, Deputy and State Assembly

President Bola Tinubu has declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Ordu, for an initial period of six months.

In their place, former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd.), has been appointed as Sole Administrator to oversee governance in the state.

Why Tinubu Took This Decision

Speaking in a nationwide broadcast on Tuesday, Tinubu explained that the prolonged political crisis in Rivers had crippled governance and threatened security in the oil-rich region.

“The state has been at a standstill since the crisis began, preventing residents from enjoying the dividends of democracy,” Tinubu said.

The President accused Governor Fubara of:

• Dismantling the state legislature by demolishing the House of Assembly complex in December 2023 and failing to rebuild it.
• Ignoring interventions from both the Presidency and other well-meaning Nigerians to resolve the crisis.
• Failing to act on security threats, including recent pipeline vandalism by militants in the state.

Supreme Court Ruling and Constitutional Backing

Tinubu referenced a recent Supreme Court judgment, which criticized the governor’s actions as unconstitutional and harmful to democratic governance. He also cited Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, which allows the President to declare a state of emergency when necessary.

Since neither the governor nor the deputy requested federal intervention, Tinubu exercised his constitutional authority to act in the state’s best interest.

What Happens Next?

• Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd.) will oversee governance but will not make new laws.
• The judiciary remains independent and will continue functioning.
• Security agencies have been directed to restore order and protect critical infrastructure.
• The emergency proclamation has been published in the Federal Gazette and sent to the National Assembly for approval.

Tinubu expressed hope that this intervention would restore stability in Rivers and uphold constitutional governance.

“Long live a united, peaceful, secure, and democratic Rivers State and Nigeria as a whole,” he concluded