Abuja, Nigeria – March 18, 2025
President Bola Tinubu has declared a state of emergency in Rivers State due to the ongoing political crisis in the state. This decision came after he met with security chiefs and the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, in Abuja.
What is a State of Emergency?
A state of emergency is a special rule that allows the President to take extraordinary actions to restore peace and order when a state is in serious trouble. It gives the government more control over security and decision-making.
Who is Affected?
- Governor Siminalayi Fubara has been suspended.
- His deputy, Ngozi Odu, has also been **suspended.
- The Rivers State House of Assembly members have been suspended for six months.
To take charge of the state, the President has appointed Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) as a military administrator for the next six months.
Why Did Tinubu Take This Action?
For two months, there has been a power struggle between the Governor and Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Both leaders have been fighting over who controls the political system in the oil-rich state.
The crisis worsened when reports of pipeline explosions and civil servants threatening mass protests surfaced. President Tinubu said that despite these problems, the Governor failed to act, forcing him to step in.
What Happens Next?
- The military administrator will run the state but cannot make new laws.
- The judicial system (courts) will continue working as usual.
- The President hopes this move will restore peace and order in Rivers State.
Background on Past State of Emergencies
This is not the first time Nigeria has declared a state of emergency. In 2013, then-President Goodluck Jonathan declared a state of emergency in Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa due to Boko Haram attacks. A smaller emergency was also declared in 2011 in parts of Yobe, Borno, Plateau, and Niger States.
The situation in Rivers State remains tense, and Nigerians are watching closely to see what happens next.
