President Bola Tinubu, on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, suspended emergency rule in Rivers and reinstated the state’s Governor, Siminalayi Fubara.
Naija News reports that Tinubu, in a statement, directed the suspended governor to resume work on Thursday, September 18.
Here are seven major points from President Tinubu’s statement:
1. Background to the State of Emergency
President Tinubu reminded Nigerians that a state of emergency was declared on March 18, 2025, due to the paralysis of governance in Rivers State. The rift between the Governor and the House of Assembly, vandalism of critical assets, and a constitutional impasse that stalled the Appropriation Bill created a vacuum in governance.
2. Supreme Court’s Position and Failed Mediation
He noted that even the Supreme Court ruled there was no government in Rivers State at the time. Multiple interventions by himself and other leaders failed, as both sides remained rigid and uncompromising.
3. Invocation of Constitutional Powers
Tinubu said it became inevitable to invoke Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution to proclaim the state of emergency, suspending the Governor, Deputy Governor, and State Assembly members for six months.
4. Role of the National Assembly and Stakeholders
The President commended the National Assembly, traditional rulers, and citizens of Rivers State for supporting the emergency measures, stressing that it was vital to restore peace and order.
5. Legal Challenges and Justification
Acknowledging over 40 lawsuits challenging the proclamation, Tinubu emphasised that such challenges are part of democracy. However, he defended the action as a constitutional safeguard against the breakdown of public order and safety.
6. Restoration of Democratic Governance
Based on new intelligence and improved understanding among stakeholders, Tinubu announced that the state of emergency will end at midnight, September 17, 2025. Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Nma Odu, Speaker Martins Amaewhule, and Assembly members are to resume their offices from September 18, 2025.
7. Call for Peace and Good Governance
The President urged governors and state assemblies nationwide to remember that peace, order, and cooperation between the executive and legislature are essential for delivering the dividends of democracy.
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