Emmanuel OchayiPresident Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State. He announced the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all members of the state assembly for an initial period of six months In a nationwide broadcast on 18 March 2025. This decisive action aims to address the escalating political crisis and instability in the state.
To ensure governance during this period, President Tinubu appointed Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas as the administrator of Rivers State. Vice Admiral Ibas, born on 27 September 1960 in Nko, Cross River State, is a retired Nigerian Navy officer who served as the 22nd Chief of Naval Staff from 2015 to 2021.
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Tinubu’s Justification for the State of Emergency
During his address, President Tinubu expressed deep concern over the crisis in Rivers State, which he said had stalled democratic governance and deprived the people of essential services. He highlighted the unresolved conflict between the governor and the state assembly, noting that various peace efforts, including his own intervention and that of well-meaning Nigerians, had been ignored.
One of the key issues leading to the state of emergency was the demolition of the Rivers State House of Assembly on 13 December 2023. President Tinubu stated that Governor Fubara had failed to rebuild the legislative house even after 14 months, effectively crippling legislative activities in the state. The Supreme Court also ruled that the governor’s actions constituted an unconstitutional breach, as he had attempted to govern without a functioning legislature. The court further declared that a government could not exist without all three arms functioning properly.
Rising Security Concerns in Rivers State
Another major factor behind the emergency declaration is the deteriorating security situation in Rivers State. According to Tinubu, intelligence reports revealed that militants had been vandalising pipelines and threatening perceived enemies of the governor. He noted that the governor had failed to take action against these threats, raising fears of further unrest.
“In the past two days, we have received reports of serious incidents of pipeline vandalism by militants, yet no action has been taken by the state government to address these issues,” Tinubu stated. He reassured the public that security agencies had been directed to protect the lives of Rivers State residents and safeguard critical national assets.
The Role of Vice Admiral Ibas as Administrator
With Governor Fubara and his deputy suspended, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas will assume control of the state’s administration. However, Tinubu clarified that the judiciary would remain unaffected by this emergency declaration and would continue to function as per the constitution. The administrator, he said, would not have the power to make new laws but could introduce necessary regulations, which would require approval from the Federal Executive Council and the President before implementation.
“This intervention is necessary to restore peace and constitutional order in Rivers State. It is not meant to suppress democracy but to protect it,” Tinubu added.
National Assembly Notification and Next Steps
The emergency declaration has been formally published in the Federal Gazette and forwarded to the National Assembly, as required by the constitution. Tinubu expressed hope that this measure would compel political actors in Rivers State to adhere to democratic principles and work towards lasting peace.
“I urge all stakeholders in Rivers State to reflect on their actions and embrace the constitutional order. The federal government remains committed to ensuring democracy thrives in all states of the federation,” he concluded.
The situation in Rivers State remains tense, and all eyes are now on Vice Admiral Ibas as he takes on the task of restoring order and governance in the state.
Emmanuel Ochayi is a journalist. He is a graduate of the University of Lagos, School of first choice and the nations pride. Emmanuel is keen on exploring writing angles in different areas, including Business, climate change, politics, Education, and others.
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