Tinubu declares state of emergency in Rivers State, appoints sole administrator amidst escalating political crisis - ITREALMS

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In a dramatic turn of events, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, effective March 18, 2025, reports ITREALMS.

This decision, announced in a nationwide broadcast, comes amidst a prolonged and intensifying political crisis that has gripped the oil-rich state.

President Tinubu cited the persistent political turmoil, the breakdown of law and order, and recent security breaches, including pipeline vandalism, as the primary reasons for invoking Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria, as amended.

Key points from the president's address as gathered by ITREALMS include the suspension of all elected officials comprising the Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, Mrs. Ngozi Odu, and all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly.

They have been suspended for an initial period of six months with hope that before the end of the period, peaceful agreement must have been reached.

Tinubu also appointed an Administrator for the state, in the name of retired Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas, to oversee its affairs during the emergency period.

The declaration has sparked mixed reactions across Nigeria. While some view it as a necessary step to restore stability, others have expressed concerns about its implications for democracy.

This declaration has created a very tense atmosphere in the region. The ramifications of this declaration will be watched very closely by all of Nigeria.

Uboshe Uboshe/Editor