President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, citing escalating political unrest and security concerns. The announcement came in a nationwide address on Tuesday, where he highlighted the persistent crisis, the destruction of oil pipelines by militants, and the breakdown of governance in the state.
Tinubu stated that despite multiple interventions, the dispute between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the state House of Assembly had paralyzed governance, leaving residents without the benefits of democracy. He also referenced a Supreme Court ruling that criticized the governor for undermining the legislature.
With tensions escalating and security threats rising, the president said the extraordinary measure was necessary to restore peace and stability. The declaration suspends the governor, his deputy, and the Assembly for six months, while federal authorities take control to prevent further deterioration of the situation.
