President Bola Tinubu has declared a state of emergency in Rivers State in response to the ongoing political crisis. In a national broadcast on Tuesday, he stated that invoking Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) was essential to restoring order. The declaration will take effect from March 18.
This action has resulted in the initial six-month suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and every elected member of the Rivers State House of Assembly. Tinubu has designated retired Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas as the state administrator in their stead.
The President clarified that this measure does not affect the judiciary, which will continue its constitutional functions. The Administrator will not introduce new laws but may issue regulations, which must be approved by the Federal Executive Council before being enacted by the President.
Tinubu underlined that the goal of this decision, which has been sent to the National Assembly and formally published in the Federal Gazette, is to ensure government and bring peace back to Rivers State. He called on all political players to respect constitutional values and strive for national and state stability.
