On Tuesday evening, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State during a national broadcast. He announced the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the state House of Assembly. The suspension will last for an initial six months. Tinubu also appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas as the administrator to manage the state’s affairs.

Military Takes Over Rivers Government House

After the declaration, soldiers moved in and took control of the Rivers Government House in Port Harcourt. Reports say that Governor Fubara was still in his official residence when the military arrived around 9 pm. The troops swarmed the area, and an Armoured Personnel Carrier was stationed at the entrance. Many vehicles with flashing lights were seen outside the gates, further escalating tensions. It remains unclear if Fubara was preparing to leave the Government House.

Rivers Residents React to State of Emergency Declaration

In Port Harcourt, people rushed home immediately after hearing the news of the emergency declaration. Many were seen on the streets discussing the situation. Some residents expressed shock, while others blamed political actors for causing the crisis. Tensions continued to rise as the city braced for the political fallout.

President Justifies His Emergency Declaration

In his broadcast, President Tinubu explained his decision to intervene in Rivers State. He stated that the state’s political crisis had defied solutions and hindered development. He pointed out that the Governor and Deputy Governor failed to request the emergency declaration, which left him with no choice but to act. Tinubu invoked Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, which immediately took effect. He also clarified that the judiciary in Rivers State would continue to operate as usual.

Security Meeting Held at Aso Rock

Earlier, President Tinubu held an emergency security meeting at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa. The meeting was convened after reports of double explosions at two oil pipelines in Rivers State. Attendees included the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, the Inspector-General of Police, and other key government officials. The security situation in the state was discussed in light of the escalating political crisis.

Fubara Calls for Calm Amid Suspension

Governor Fubara responded to his suspension with a call for peace. In a signed statement, he reassured Rivers residents that he would continue working for the people’s welfare. He acknowledged the political conflict but emphasized that good governance had remained a priority. Fubara called for engagement with relevant institutions to ensure the continued strength of democracy in the state.

Explosion Rocks Oil Pipelines Amid Rising Tensions

Two separate explosions occurred between Monday night and Tuesday morning at oil pipelines in Rivers State. The first explosion took place along the Trans Niger Pipeline in Gokana Local Government Area. The second occurred in the Omwawriwa area of Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni Local Government Area. Sources attributed the explosions to illegal bunkering, though Shell has not confirmed the cause. The police are investigating the incidents, and two suspects have been arrested.

Political Crisis Deepens as Impeachment Moves Begin

The political crisis in Rivers State intensified as the state assembly initiated impeachment proceedings against Governor Fubara and his deputy. A notice of alleged gross misconduct was served to the Governor, signaling the start of the impeachment process. This move has further heightened tensions, particularly among Ijaw groups, who have vowed to oppose any attempt to remove Fubara from office. They argue that such an action could destabilize the region.

Opposition and Legal Challenges to the State of Emergency

Opposition parties, including the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), have strongly criticized Tinubu’s actions. The NBA argued that the President did not have the constitutional authority to remove elected officials under the guise of a state of emergency. The PDP also condemned the suspension of Fubara and the appointment of Ibas. They accused Tinubu of undermining democracy and warned that the move could lead to political instability.

Conclusion: A Nation Divided

The state of emergency declaration in Rivers State has created a political crisis with far-reaching consequences. As tensions continue to rise, there are concerns about the long-term impact on Nigeria’s democracy. Many fear that this intervention could set a dangerous precedent for federal interference in state affairs. How the situation will unfold remains uncertain, and the political landscape in Rivers State is likely to face significant challenges in the coming months.