By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu, Warri
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, citing the prolonged political crisis and security concerns that have paralyzed governance in the oil-rich state.
The declaration, which takes immediate effect, also suspends Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for an initial period of six months.
In a nationwide address on Tuesday, Tinubu expressed deep concern over the lingering political turmoil in Rivers, noting that his interventions and those of well-meaning Nigerians had failed to resolve the crisis.
He accused Governor Fubara of disregarding constitutional principles, particularly in the demolition of the state House of Assembly complex in December 2023 and his failure to restore legislative functions in the state.
“The Supreme Court has made it clear that a government cannot exist without one of its three arms. The head of the executive arm in Rivers has collapsed the legislature to enable him to govern without checks. As it stands, there is no functional government in Rivers State,” Tinubu said.
He further cited security reports detailing acts of vandalism against oil pipelines by suspected militants, warning that the situation posed a serious threat to national stability.
“In the last 48 hours, we have received alarming reports of pipeline vandalization. The governor has not taken any decisive action to curb these activities, leaving the state’s security at risk,” he added.
To restore order, Tinubu announced the appointment of retired Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas as the Administrator of Rivers State. While the judiciary will continue to function, the administrator will oversee the state’s affairs without making new laws, except for regulations approved by the Federal Executive Council and promulgated by the president.
“This is an extraordinary measure aimed at safeguarding democratic governance, peace, and security in Rivers State. It is my fervent hope that this intervention will set the state back on the path of stability,” Tinubu stated.
The declaration has been published in the Federal Gazette and forwarded to the National Assembly for ratification, in line with constitutional provisions.