President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declares a state of emergency in Rivers state due to long-term crisis and unresolved political divisions
The announcement was in a decisive speech on Tuesday, March 18, 2025.
The action resulted in immediate suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara. The President invoked Article 305 of the 1999 Constitution (Amendment) to legalize a state of emergency.
President Tinubu said in his speech: “I am very troubled by the political crisis in the river and Fubara has evacuated good governance, but after Nigerians, people have not tried.
“Without taking action, no responsible president restores good governance and peace in such circumstances, this is the case in which the declaration is declared.
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The statement comes from recent reports of oil pipeline damage in the River State, especially the explosion of oil facilities at the Trans-Niger Pipeline operated by the OGBA/EGBEMA/NDONI local government areas and the Trans-Niger Pipeline operated by the Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC).
But to ensure the maintenance of governance and law, President Tinubu appointed Deputy Admiral Ibockett Ibas (retired) as the administrator of Rivers State.
The appointment is intended to stabilize the region and resolve pressing issues leading to emergency declarations.
The State of Emergency Declaration has evoked reactions from many Nigerians who have expressed their views to all media platforms.
More details are coming soon
