Rivers State is facing intense political unrest after President Bola Tinubu declared a State of Emergency, suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all House of Assembly members for six months. The president appointed Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (rtd) as the administrator to oversee the state during this period.

The crisis in Rivers began in 2024 when Governor Fubara fell out with his predecessor and political mentor, Nyesom Wike. Several efforts to resolve the conflict failed, leading to deep divisions within the state government. In a dramatic turn, 27 lawmakers loyal to Wike defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Their seats were initially declared vacant but later reinstated by the Supreme Court on February 28, 2025.

Since their reinstatement, tensions between the governor and the lawmakers have worsened. The lawmakers, led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, accused Fubara of misconduct and served him an impeachment notice on March 17, 2025.

Hours after the impeachment notice, suspected militants blew up the Trans-Niger Pipeline (TNP) in Bodo, Gokana Local Government Area. Another explosion was reported at a pipeline manifold in Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni Local Government Area. The attacks raised fears of a resurgence of militancy in the Niger Delta.

President Tinubu defended his decision, saying it was necessary to restore order. However, many political figures and groups have criticized it.

• Labour Party’s National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, questioned the legality of suspending elected officials, calling on the National Assembly to intervene.
• PDP chieftain Dr. Adejor Anthony accused Tinubu of siding with Wike, warning that the move could destabilize the state further.
• Dr. Yunusa Tanko, leader of the Obidient Movement, said the suspension of Fubara could spark more crises and worsen the situation.
• Lawyer Barrister Mathew Abakpa, however, defended Tinubu’s actions, saying the president had the constitutional power to declare a State of Emergency if law and order were threatened.

Following Tinubu’s declaration, the Nigerian Military took control of the Rivers Government House in Port Harcourt. Reports suggest that various groups are planning protests in support of Governor Fubara, raising concerns about further unrest.

With military intervention, political disputes, and growing security concerns, the situation in Rivers State remains uncertain. The coming weeks will determine whether Tinubu’s emergency rule will calm the crisis or fuel more tension.