
The Rivers State House of Assembly has backed President Bola Tinubu’s state of emergency declaration, blaming Governor Siminalayi Fubara for political instability. The Assembly supports the appointment of a Sole Administrator to restore order. Tinubu also suspended Fubara and lawmakers, appointing retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as administrator.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara has dismissed concerns over a potential state of emergency in Rivers State, insisting that the situation remains under control despite ongoing political tensions. His remarks come amid heightened conflict between pro-Wike lawmakers and the state government.
On Monday, the Rivers State House of Assembly, controlled by legislators loyal to former governor Nyesom Wike, suspended three local government chairmen: Ikwuorie Ezekiel of Abua/Odual, Ajie Samuel of Ahoada East, and Hope Ikiriko of Ahoada West. The lawmakers cited alleged misconduct and abuse of office as reasons for their suspension.
Fubara, addressing the crisis, reassured residents that his administration is stable and focused on governance. He stated that talk of a state of emergency is unfounded and politically motivated. He further expressed confidence in his ability to manage the situation without federal intervention.
In a related development, President Bola Tinubu has sworn in Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd) as the new Administrator of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), signaling federal oversight in the region.
The crisis in Rivers has deepened political divisions, with both pro-Wike and pro-Fubara factions vying for control. As the standoff continues, residents and political observers remain keenly interested in how the governor will navigate these challenges.