Tinubu Declares State of Emergency in Rivers State

President Bola Tinubu has declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, citing the prolonged political crisis and governance paralysis. As part of the directive, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and members of the State House of Assembly have been suspended for six months.

In a nationwide emergency broadcast on Tuesday, Tinubu expressed deep concern over the situation, stating that the state had been at a standstill, depriving the people of good governance. He referenced the prolonged impasse following the demolition of the State House of Assembly, which remains unbuilt despite multiple interventions.

The President emphasized that no responsible leader could remain passive in such circumstances and asserted that the declaration was necessary to restore governance and stability. He announced the appointment of retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as the Administrator to oversee the state's affairs.

The declaration followed reports of another explosion at an oil facility in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area, intensifying the already volatile situation. Earlier the same day, the Trans-Niger Pipeline, operated by Shell Petroleum Development Company, caught fire, further escalating tensions in the state.