President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially sworn in Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd.) as the Sole Administrator of Rivers State following the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and the state House of Assembly members. The swearing-in ceremony took place at the State House, Abuja, in the presence of top government officials, including Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, Attorney-General of the Federation Lateef Fagbemi, and Special Adviser Bayo Onanuga.
Why Tinubu Declared a State of Emergency in Rivers State
The decision, announced in a national broadcast on March 18, 2025, comes amid prolonged political instability, constitutional breaches, and security concerns in the oil-rich state. The crisis is linked to a power struggle between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, who is now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
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Tinubu’s Statement on the Rivers Political Crisis
Citing Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), Tinubu justified the state of emergency, stating:
"Having soberly reflected on the political situation in Rivers State and considering the failure of the Governor and Deputy Governor to request a proclamation, it has become inevitably compelling for me to invoke the provision of Section 305 of the Constitution to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State, effective March 18, 2025."
What This Means for Rivers State
Suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and Rivers House of Assembly members for an initial six months.
Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd.) was appointed as Sole Administrator to oversee governance until normalcy is restored.
The judiciary remains functional, as the declaration does not affect the state's courts.
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Who is Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas?
Ibas is a retired Chief of Naval Staff (2015-2021) under former President Muhammadu Buhari. With vast experience in security and governance, his appointment signals a strong federal intervention in the ongoing Rivers political crisis.
Stay tuned to Naija Blog Daily for the latest updates on the Rivers State political crisis and national developments.
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