Tinubu declares a state of emergency in Rivers state and suspends Governor Fubara, Deputy and House of Assembly for six months.
President Bola Tinubu expressed deep concern over the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State. He also accused Governor Siminalayi Fubara of being responsible for the demolition of the State House of Assembly building.
He declared state of emergency in Rivers State during a nationwide broadcast.
Following an assessment of the situation, Tinubu announced that the state of emergency would take effect from March 18.
Additionally, he suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his Deputy Ngozi Odu and all elected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for six months.
To oversee the state’s affairs, Tinubu appointed Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (RTD) as Administrator.
He clarified that this declaration does not impact the judiciary, which will continue to function under its constitutional mandate. While the Administrator will not enact new laws, he may introduce necessary regulations, subject to review and approval.
For the avoidance of doubt, this declaration does not affect the judicial arm of Rivers State, which shall continue to function in accordance with their constitutional mandate.
“The Administrator will not make any new laws. He will, however, be free to formulate regulations as may be found necessary to do his job, but such regulations will need to be considered and approved by the Federal Executive Council and promulgated by the President for the state,” Tinubu said.
Video: President Tinubu has declared state on emergency on Rivers state effective immediately, suspends Governor Fubara, his deputy governor and house of assembly members for six months.
He also nominated an administrator pic.twitter.com/jD1g9FHOez— Nigeria Stories (@NigeriaStories) March 18, 2025
This decision was made shortly after President Bola Tinubu met with his service Chiefs and the inspector General of police at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa.
The meeting which started around 3pm was attended by Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele.
Additionally, the speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas and the Deputy speaker Benjamin Kalu arrived at the forecourt of the presidential villa.
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