PORTHARCOURT: President Bola Tinubu has declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for an initial period of six months.
This action aims to address escalating political tensions and security concerns in the oil-rich region
In a nationwide broadcast on Tuesday, President Tinubu cited recent incidents of pipeline vandalism by militants, which he claimed were not adequately addressed by the state government.
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He expressed that such circumstances necessitated federal intervention to ensure the safety of residents and the protection of vital oil infrastructure.
The President appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as the state’s administrator during this period. He emphasized that the judicial arm of Rivers State would continue to function as mandated by the constitution
This development follows internal conflicts within the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Rivers State, including threats of impeachment against Governor Fubara and his deputy. The emergency declaration enables the federal government to assume control and deploy security forces to maintain order.
The President has forwarded the proclamation to the National Assembly for approval, as required by the constitution.
