President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State to avert governance collapse and protect economic interests. Attorney-General Lateef Fagbemi emphasized the necessity of this action to address ongoing political and security crises. The Governor and local officials were suspended, and Vice Admiral Ibok-Étè Ibas was appointed as sole administrator to restore order.
The Federal Government has defended President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, asserting that it is a necessary intervention to preempt further governance collapse and protect Nigeria’s vital economic interests. Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, provided this information at a press briefing at the Aso Rock Villa. He highlighted that the situation required immediate address to prevent escalation of political and security challenges in this oil-rich state.
Fagbemi noted, “The events in Rivers State have been brewing for a long time. The President has made several attempts to intervene… the situation cannot be allowed to continue.” He urged Nigerians to adhere to the Supreme Court’s rulings amid growing anxieties regarding security and governance that have paralyzed the region’s political landscape.
This crisis has arisen from a longstanding power struggle between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike. This feud has led to a breakdown in governance, raising alarm over constitutional violations and escalating security threats. Consequently, the President announced that all local elected officials in Rivers State would be suspended for an initial period of six months.
In conjunction with this declaration, President Tinubu appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Étè Ibas as the sole administrator for Rivers State. Ibas, a former Chief of Naval Staff, is expected to stabilize the state and restore effective government operations. In his address, Tinubu articulated his decision, referencing Section 305 of the Nigerian Constitution as the basis for his actions.
The President stated, “…it has become inevitably compelling for me to invoke the provision… to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State with effect from today, March 18, 2025.” This declaration has generated varied responses among stakeholders, with some lauding the timely measure, while others express concerns regarding the potential erosion of democratic principles and the rule of law.
In summary, the Federal Government justifies the emergency declaration in Rivers State as a necessary step to safeguard the country’s economic stability and address the ongoing political crisis. Key figures such as Attorney-General Lateef Fagbemi and President Bola Tinubu emphasize the urgency of intervention amidst governance breakdowns and rising security threats. The appointment of Vice Admiral Ibas as sole administrator aims to revitalize state operations, though the implications for democracy continue to provoke debate among stakeholders.
Original Source: nairametrics.com
