On March 18, 2025, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State due to rising political tensions and security threats. As part of this decision, he suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for six months.
This decision follows reports of pipeline vandalism and militant activities, which the government says the state officials failed to control. Rivers State, a major oil-producing region in Nigeria, has been facing unrest that could affect the country’s economy.
To ensure peace and order, President Tinubu appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas as the administrator of the state. He will take over leadership and manage government affairs during the six-month period.
The state’s judiciary will continue to function, meaning courts and legal processes will not be interrupted. However, the executive and legislative arms of the state government will remain suspended.
The declaration of a state of emergency means that:
The governor and other officials will not have power for six months.
A new administrator will take over state affairs.
Security forces will be deployed to maintain peace.
The federal government will oversee governance in Rivers State.
