Gov Fubara
President Tinubu Declares State of Emergency in Rivers, Suspends Gov, Deputy, Assembly Members
President Bola Tinubu has declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, citing political instability and a failure to address critical security issues.
The announcement was made during a nationwide broadcast on Tuesday, March 18, 2025.
In his address, President Tinubu revealed that Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly have been suspended for an initial period of six months.
The decision follows reports of escalating violence, including pipeline vandalism by militants, which the governor allegedly failed to address.
“Recent security reports indicate disturbing incidents of pipeline vandalism by militants, with no decisive action taken by the governor to curb these activities,” Tinubu stated.
“I have directed security agencies to prioritize the safety of lives and protect critical infrastructure in Rivers State.”
The President emphasized that the situation demanded extraordinary measures to restore peace, order, and good governance.
He invoked Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria, as amended, to declare the state of emergency, effective immediately.
“Given the gravity of the situation, and in the absence of a formal request from the governor or deputy governor as required by the Constitution, I am compelled to take this necessary step,” Tinubu explained.
“This declaration is aimed at addressing the political crisis and ensuring the restoration of stability in Rivers State.”
With this proclamation, all elected officials in the state, including Governor Fubara, Deputy Governor Odu, and members of the State Assembly, will remain suspended for six months as the Federal Government works to resolve the crisis.
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