- On Tuesday evening, President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria announced a state of emergency in Rivers State during a nationwide address.
- He also suspended both Governor Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Odu, for six months, along with all elected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly.
- To oversee the state’s administration, he appointed Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) as the new Administrator.
President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State on Tuesday night, addressing the nation in a broadcast.
He voiced his deep concern regarding the political crisis in the state and accused Governor Siminilayi Fubara of destroying the State House of Assembly building.
After evaluating the circumstances, Tinubu announced that the state of emergency would take effect on March 18.
He also suspended Governor Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Odu, for six months, along with all elected members of the House of Assembly.
Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) was appointed as the Administrator to manage the state’s affairs. This decision followed a meeting with service chiefs and the Inspector-General of Police at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa, which included key Senate leaders and House representatives.
“For the avoidance of doubt, this declaration does not affect the judicial arm of Rivers State, which shall continue to function in accordance with their constitutional mandate.
“The Administrator will not make any new laws. He will, however, be free to formulate regulations as may be found necessary to do his job, but such regulations will need to be considered and approved by the Federal Executive Council and promulgated by the President for the state,” Tinubu said.
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