An evening-timed declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu on March 18, 2025, was maybe not unexpected. This decision, driven by the prolonged conflict between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the Rivers State House of Assembly, aims to restore governance and stability in a region critical to Nigeria’s economy. But what does this mean for the residents of Rivers State, and how might it impact the nation as a whole?

The political turmoil in Rivers State has been brewing since October 2023, with tensions escalating between the executive and legislative arms of government. The demolition of the House of Assembly in December 2023 by Governor Fubara was one of the results, coupled with his failure to rebuild the complex, symbolising the breakdown of governance.

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One precedence can be found in the Supreme Court’s judgment in February 2025 further highlighting constitutional breaches, and declaring that the state lacked a functioning government.

This chaotic backdrop set the stage for President Tinubu’s intervention when he invoked Section 305(5) of the 1999 Constitution as Amended.

In the meantime, I hereby nominate Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) as Administrator to take charge of the affairs of the state in the interest of the good people of Rivers State.

For the avoidance of doubt, this declaration does not affect the judicial arm of Rivers State, which shall continue to function in accordance with their constitutional mandate.

The role of Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) here

With the suspension of the executive and legislative arms, Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) has been appointed as the administrator of Rivers State for an initial period of six months.

His mandate is clear: to restore peace, order, and governance. While he cannot enact new laws, he is empowered to formulate necessary regulations, subject to approval by the Federal Executive Council and the President.

For residents, this means a temporary shift in governance. The judiciary remains functional, ensuring that legal processes continue uninterrupted. However, the absence of elected representatives raises questions about accountability and public participation during this period. 

These democratic mechanics have all been ruled out of order pending the duration of the State of Emergency which Nigeria’s constitution grants can be extended if need be.

Pipeline vandalism didn’t help

Rivers State is a vital contributor to Nigeria’s economy, particularly through its oil and gas sector. On March 18, 2025, the same day a state of emergency was declared in Rivers State, a significant explosion occurred on the Trans-Niger Pipeline in Bodo, Gokana Local Government Area.

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This pipeline is a critical piece of infrastructure for Nigeria’s oil exports, transporting crude oil off to the Bonny Terminal in neighbouring Bayelsa State. The explosion triggered a fire along a vital section of the pipeline. State police confirmed the incident and reported that two individuals were arrested in connection with the blast.

President Tinubu’s decision, therefore, can be seen as a strategic move to protect this economic lifeline. The administration aims to create an environment conducive to investment and development by addressing the political crisis and curbing militant activities.

Meiza Nigeria