Tinubu Declares State of Emergency in Rivers State
President Bola Tinubu has declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, citing political instability and security concerns. The announcement was made on Tuesday during a nationwide broadcast.
As part of the emergency measures, Tinubu ordered 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 latest security reports indicate alarming incidents of pipeline vandalization by militants within the last 24 hours, with no action taken by the governor to address the situation. I have, therefore, directed security agencies to safeguard the lives of Rivers State residents and protect vital oil infrastructure,” Tinubu stated.
He emphasized that no responsible leader could allow the crisis to persist without taking decisive constitutional action.
“After careful reflection on the deteriorating political situation and the failure of the Governor and Deputy Governor to request my intervention, as required by Section 305(5) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), I am compelled to invoke Section 305 to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State, effective March 18, 2025,” the president announced.
With this declaration, the suspended officials will remain out of office for an initial period of six months as the federal government takes steps to restore governance, peace, and security in the state.
