President Bola Tinubu has declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, citing escalating political instability and security concerns.
In a nationwide broadcast on Tuesday, Tinubu announced the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for an initial period of six months.
The president attributed his decision to reports of pipeline vandalism by militants and the alleged failure of the state government to take decisive action.
“The latest security reports indicate that, between yesterday and today, there have been disturbing incidents of pipeline vandalism. Yet, the governor has taken no action to address them,” Tinubu stated. “As President, I have issued strict orders to security agencies to safeguard lives and critical infrastructure.”
Tinubu emphasized that the deteriorating situation in Rivers State required urgent intervention. He noted that the failure of the governor and deputy governor to formally request federal intervention as stipulated by the Constitution had left him with no choice but to act in the interest of peace and governance.
“With a sober reflection on the crisis in Rivers State, and in line with Section 305 of the Constitution, I declare a state of emergency in Rivers State, effective today, March 18, 2025,” Tinubu announced.
