On March 18, 2025, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, effectively suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for an initial period of six months.
This move was announced during a nationwide broadcast, where Tinubu cited prolonged political instability, constitutional breaches, and security threats—such as the vandalism of oil pipelines—as reasons for the decision.
He appointed Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Retired) as the Sole Administrator to oversee the state’s affairs during this period. The swearing-in of Ibas took place on March 19, 2025, at the State House in Abuja.
While the term “sacks” implies a permanent removal, Tinubu’s action is technically a suspension under the state of emergency, not an outright dismissal. The Nigerian Constitution, under Section 305, allows the President to declare a state of emergency, but the suspension of elected officials has sparked debate.
Critics, including the Nigerian Bar Association and PDP Governors’ Forum, argue that this move lacks constitutional backing for removing elected officials, as Section 188 outlines impeachment by the State House of Assembly as the proper process. Supporters, like some suspended Rivers lawmakers, claim it was necessary due to governance failures.
The crisis stems from a power struggle between Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, now the FCT Minister, which has paralyzed governance in the oil-rich state. Whether this suspension holds or is challenged legally remains to be seen, but as of today, March 19, 2025, Fubara is no longer functioning as governor.
