Tinubu Declares State of Emergency in Rivers, Suspends Governor and Lawmakers

President Bola Tinubu has declared a state of emergency in Rivers State following the escalating political crisis.

In a nationwide broadcast on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, Tinubu announced the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for an initial period of six months.

The President said the decision was necessary to restore order and ensure effective governance in the state. The Federal Government is expected to appoint an administrator to oversee the state’s affairs during the emergency period.

Citizens have been urged to remain calm and cooperate with authorities as efforts are made to stabilize the state.