Rivers state: Is Tinubu’s state of emergency the right call?

In a decisive move addressing the escalating political crisis in Rivers State, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency on March 18, 2025. This action led to the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for an initial period of six months. Retired Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas was appointed as the state’s administrator during this period. The state of emergency came in his 10 minutes live broadcast address to the country over the worsened political crisis in one of Nigeria’s rich oil producing state.

Why Tinubu’s declaration is necessary for Rivers state

The political turmoil in Rivers State has been marked by a series of events undermining civilian governance. In December 2023, Governor Fubara ordered the demolition of the state House of Assembly complex. Over a year later, the complex remains unrebuilt, effectively paralyzing the legislative arm and disrupting the state’s checks and balances.

Following the demolition of the state’s house of assembly conundrum. On February 28, 2025, the Supreme Court highlighted the absence of a functional government in Rivers State, emphasizing that the executive’s actions had collapsed the legislative arm, leading to a governance void. Furthermore, recent reports indicate that militants have vandalized pipelines and issued threats without any intervention from the state government, raising alarms about the state’s security and economic stability.

This situation in a state that has been crucial to the country’s economy needs urgent and cautious intervention from the federal government and President Tinubu who has seen himself as a leader that has the interest of the nation in his mind has swung into action in instituting a state of emergency that could hopefully restore the sanity of Rivers state and the country at large.

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Critique of President Tinubu’s state of emergency

The escalating situation in the political affairs of Rivers state and Tinubu’s intervention is like a coin with two faces. While the President’s intervention aims to restore order, several aspects merit critical examination. Invoking a state of emergency to suspend elected officials is a profound measure that may set a concerning precedent. While the Constitution provides for such actions under extreme circumstances, the balance between federal intervention and state autonomy is delicate and must be handled with utmost care to avoid perceptions of stepping out of bounds.

More also, the selection of a retired military officer as the state’s administrator raises questions about the militarization of a democratic government. Although Vice Admiral Ibas brings leadership experience, his military background may not align with the attitudes of civilian administration, potentially leading to more political challenges. Furthermore, the initial six-month period of emergency rule, with provisions for extension, could lead to prolonged federal control. It’s crucial to establish clear timelines and measurable objectives to ensure a timely return to democratic governance.

What the future of the intervention holds

It is evident that Tinubu’s intervention in the political affairs of Rivers state may be detrimental to the sanctity of the state. However, the success of this intervention hinges on several factors. Rather than put out a state of emergency and suspending civilian governance in the state, engaging all stakeholders, including suspended officials, civil society, and local community leaders, is essential to address underlying issues and foster a sustainable resolution.

Additionally, Tinubu’s intervention should aim at prioritizing the reconstruction of the legislative complex and restoring the legislative process which are vital steps toward re-establishing functional civilian governance. More also, addressing security challenges, particularly those affecting critical infrastructure like oil pipelines, is crucial for the state’s economy and the confidence of the people of Rivers state in the democratic government.

Conclusion

While President Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State reflects a commitment to restoring order amid a profound crisis, it also raises critical questions about constitutional boundaries, civil governance, and the path to real peace. The effectiveness of this intervention will depend on its implementation, adherence to democratic principles, and the genuine engagement of all stakeholders in the reconciliation process.