President Bola Tinubu Imposes State of Emergency in Rivers State Amid Political Turmoil
President Bola Tinubu Imposes State of Emergency in Rivers State Amid Political Turmoil
In a decisive move aimed at restoring order and governance in Rivers State, President Bola Tinubu announced a state of emergency on Tuesday, citing ongoing political instability and a crisis that has gripped the southern state. During a nationwide broadcast, Tinubu expressed his concerns about the escalating tensions and the apparent breakdown of leadership within the state government, prompting the urgent declaration.
The president’s announcement included the suspension of key state officials, specifically Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his Deputy Ngozi Odu, and all members of the Rivers State Assembly. This unprecedented action is set to last for an initial period of six months, during which time the federal government will assume responsibility for governance in the state. In his address, President Tinubu referenced the failure of the state’s leadership to formally request federal intervention, noting that both the governor and the deputy governor neglected to invoke Section 305(5) of the 1999 Constitution, which outlines the procedures for such a declaration.
“Having soberly reflected on and evaluated the political situation in Rivers State,” Tinubu stated, “it has become inevitably compelling for me to invoke the provision of Section 305 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 as amended, to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State with effect from today.” This bold action underscores the government’s determination to address the political chaos and restore stability in the region, which has been marked by unrest and challenges to authority.
The declaration has sparked a mixed reaction among residents and political analysts, with some praising Tinubu’s proactive approach while others express concern about the implications of federal oversight in state affairs. As the nation watches closely, the effectiveness of this emergency measure will be critical in determining the future political landscape of Rivers State and the nation’s ongoing struggles with governance and accountability.
