Abuja: President Bola Tinubu has declared a state of emergency in Rivers following the lingering political crisis in the state. The President made the declaration in a national broadcast on Tuesday.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, President Tinubu stated that it had become necessary to invoke the provision of section 305 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 as amended, to declare a state of emergency in Rivers with effect from March 18. By this declaration, the Governor of Rivers, Mr. Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, Mrs. Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the House of Assembly of Rivers are suspended for an initial period of six months.
In the same address, President Tinubu nominated Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd.) as Administrator to manage the affairs of the state. The President clarified that the judicial arm of the state would continue to function in accordance with its constitutional mandate, ensuring that the declaration does not interfere with judicial activities.
The Administrator, while not making any new laws, will have the authority to formulate necessary regulations. These regulations will be subject to approval by the Federal Executive Council and promulgation by the President for the state. This decision has been documented in the Federal Gazette, with a copy sent to the National Assembly, adhering to constitutional requirements.
President Tinubu expressed hope that this intervention would restore peace and order in Rivers State and remind political players of their constitutional responsibilities both within the state and across Nigeria.