President Tinubu Suspends Rivers State Governor and Deputy Amid Emergency Declaration

During a nationwide broadcast, President Tinubu outlined the necessity of this declaration, emphasizing that it aims to restore order and governance in the oil-rich state. He stated, “By this declaration, the Governor of Rivers State, Mr. Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, Mrs. Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the House of Assembly of Rivers State are hereby suspended for an initial period of six months.”

To oversee the affairs of the state during this emergency, the President has appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Étè Ibas as the sole administrator. Ibas, who previously served as Chief of Naval Staff, will be tasked with restoring governance in the interest of the citizens of Rivers State.

In his address, Tinubu noted that the declaration has been formally published in the Federal Gazette, fulfilling constitutional requirements, and a copy has been forwarded to the National Assembly. He invoked Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, asserting that the emergency measure is essential to re-establish peace within the state.

The President expressed hope that this intervention would prompt all political actors in Rivers State to respect constitutional principles and work towards a stable political environment. He underscored the government’s commitment to ensuring that the judicial arm of the state continues to function independently during this period.