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President Bola Tinubu has announced the end of the six-month state of emergency in Rivers State, effective midnight, September 17, 2025.
This decision allows Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Nma Odu, and members of the State House of Assembly to resume their duties on Thursday, September 18, 2025.
Background of the State of Emergency
The state of emergency was declared on March 18, 2025, due to a prolonged political standoff between Governor Fubara and 27 lawmakers loyal to the House Speaker, Martins Amaewhule. This conflict had crippled governance in the state, with the Supreme Court noting that “there was no government in Rivers State”. The emergency declaration was backed by the National Assembly and aimed at restoring peace and order.
Reasons for Lifting the Emergency
President Tinubu cited a “groundswell of a new spirit of understanding” among political stakeholders in Rivers State as the reason for lifting the emergency. He expressed satisfaction with the improved cooperation and readiness for democratic governance, making it unnecessary for the emergency to continue beyond its initial six months.
Impact and Next Steps
The lifting of the state of emergency is expected to bring relief to the people of Rivers State and restore normal governance. Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (retd.), who has been serving as the Sole Administrator of Rivers State since the emergency declaration, will likely step down as Governor Fubara and the State House of Assembly resume their duties.
President’s Call to Action
In his statement, President Tinubu urged governors and state assemblies across Nigeria to prioritize harmony between the executive and legislative arms of government. This, he said, would ensure that Nigerians enjoy the dividends of democracy and prevent future crises ⁴.
