President Bola Tinubu has officially ended the six-month state of emergency in Rivers State, paving the way for the reinstatement of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the restoration of democratic governance in the oil-rich Niger Delta region. The decision marks a significant turning point in the ongoing political crisis that has gripped the state since early 2025.
The emergency rule, declared on March 18, 2025, under Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, suspended the offices of the governor, deputy governor, and state House of Assembly due to escalating tensions, vandalism of oil pipelines, and a complete paralysis of governance. Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.) was appointed as Sole Administrator to oversee the state during this period, focusing on stabilizing security and protecting critical infrastructure.
In a national broadcast late Wednesday, President Tinubu announced the lifting of the emergency measures effective midnight on September 17, 2025, citing improved conditions and a "new spirit of understanding" among stakeholders. "It gives me great pleasure to declare that the emergency in Rivers State shall end with effect from midnight today," Tinubu stated, emphasizing the readiness for democratic resumption and urging cooperation between the executive and legislative arms for effective governance.
The crisis originated from a power struggle between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, now Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, over control of political structures and resources ahead of the 2027 elections. Tensions boiled over with a split in the state assembly, legal battles, and violent incidents, including the burning of the assembly complex. Despite a peace accord brokered by Tinubu in December 2023, conflicts persisted, culminating in a Supreme Court ruling on February 28, 2025, that upheld the Martin Amaewhule-led faction of the assembly and nullified Fubara's local government elections.
Mixed sentiments prevail among Rivers residents. While some express optimism for resumed projects and stability, others, like local indigene Ibifuro, note that Fubara's hands remain tied: "I’m happy, but nothing much will change because... he is like an infant now who will wait for instructions."30fc6f Elder statesman Sunny Chukumele voiced disappointment, likening the reinstatement to "going back to Egypt," while former lawmaker Ogbonna Nwuke called for synergy to ensure good governance.