Tinubu ends state of emergency in Rivers State

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu announced the conclusion of the emergency rule in Rivers State, directing suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara to return to his duties on Thursday, September 18. The Deputy Governor and House of Assembly members have also been instructed to resume their roles.

The President’s decision marks the end of a six-month period during which governance in Rivers was overseen by a Sole Administrator, retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas. The special administration was charged with reestablishing order and creating conditions suitable for restoring democratic rule.

This decision by the President came after constitutional concerns were raised. Several legal experts and civil society organizations, including the Nigerian Bar Association, criticized the proclamation as lacking a constitutional basis and undermining democratic norms. Nevertheless, Tinubu justified the action under Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, which grants the President authority to impose emergency measures in instances such as war, severe public disorder, or threats to national security.

Despite this justification, opponents contended that the situation in Rivers did not warrant such extreme intervention. They viewed the declaration as an overextension of executive power that bypassed democratic checks and balances.

The emergency followed a sharp political conflict between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, now Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike. While the installation of the interim administrator eased public tensions and quelled direct confrontations, underlying divisions persisted within the state’s political landscape.

Governor Fubara, upon receiving the news, said that he is ready to resume his responsibilities and work towards healing the divisions that have challenged the state.

The lifting of the emergency order shows a new phase for Rivers State, with hopes of political stability and strengthened democratic institutions ahead.