Tinubu Lifts State of Emergency in Rivers State, Kicks-Start Return to Democratic Governance

Strategic Insights -

Following six months of emergency rule imposed on Rivers State, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced the end of the state of emergency, effective September 18. This move marks a significant twist in the state's political landscape, which has been marred by conflict and governance paralysis. The President's decision has been met with a groundswell of new understanding among stakeholders in Rivers State, with the Assembly and Governor Siminalayi Fubara expected to resume their constitutional roles on Thursday.

Key Takeaways:

  • The state of emergency, imposed on March 18, 2025, has been lifted, paving the way for the return of democratic governance in Rivers State.
  • President Tinubu stated that the decision followed a robust readiness and potent enthusiasm on the part of all stakeholders in Rivers State for an immediate return to democratic governance.
  • The suspension of Governor Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Nma Odu, and the 32-member State House of Assembly lasted six months and expired on September 17.
  • The President commended the National Assembly for swiftly approving the emergency declaration in March, as well as traditional rulers and residents of Rivers State for their cooperation throughout the period.
  • Tinubu urged governors and lawmakers across the country to draw lessons from the crisis, emphasizing that democracy can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace, order, and mutual respect between the executive and legislature.
  • Stakeholders in Rivers State have welcomed the President's decision, with some calling on Governor Fubara to focus on governance and shun sycophants and conflict instigators.
  • A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Emma Okah, said Fubara is at liberty to leave the party and join any other political platform.
  • Former member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Ogbonna Nwuke, advised the governor to ensure the state regains its position in the comity of states in the country.

Statistics:

  • The state of emergency in Rivers State lasted six months, with the suspension of Governor Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Nma Odu, and the 32-member State House of Assembly.
  • The President's decision was met with over 40 court cases in Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Yenagoa.
  • Rivers State has lost a significant amount of resources and developmental efforts due to the crisis.
  • The state's GDP will take a significant hit in the upcoming years due to the economic impact of the state of emergency.

Sources:

  • President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's statement
  • Leadership Newspaper (2025)
  • Supreme Court judgement
  • Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) statement
  • Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) statement
  • TVC programme