Tinubu officially gazettes state of emergency in Rivers amid criticism

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially issued a gazette declaring a State of Emergency in Rivers State, a move that has sparked nationwide and international criticism.

The gazette, signed by the president and obtained by SaharaReporters on Thursday, appoints Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd) as the Administrator of the state, granting him full authority to govern in accordance with presidential directives.

Titled “State of Emergency (Rivers State) Proclamation, 2025,” the document cites Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution as the legal foundation for the declaration, emphasizing the need to restore peace, security, and governance.

The proclamation states that there is a clear and imminent danger of a breakdown in public order and safety, which necessitates extraordinary measures to prevent further escalation. It further warns that if left unchecked, the crisis in Rivers State could lead to massive loss of lives and property.

As part of the emergency measures, the offices of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and all elected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly are suspended for six months.

In their place, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd) will oversee the administration of the state, acting in line with regulations issued by the president. The proclamation, which takes immediate effect, may be cited as the State of Emergency (Rivers State) Proclamation, 2025.

On March 20, 2025, the Nigerian Senate and House of Representatives ratified the decision, formally approving the suspension of Rivers State’s leadership and endorsing the appointment of an administrator.

The declaration has since been met with widespread condemnation from political groups and civil society organizations, including Afenifere, the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), and several elder statesmen.

Critics argue that the president’s decision undermines democratic principles and imposes a military-style administration on the state. Many have called for urgent legal action to challenge the constitutionality of the proclamation, warning that it sets a dangerous precedent for federal intervention in state governance.