In a nationwide broadcast this evening, President Tinubu announced the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Mrs. Ngozi Odu, and all members of the House of Assembly for an initial period of six months.
He stated:
“After carefully reflecting on and assessing the political situation in Rivers State, and given that both the Governor and Deputy Governor have failed to request this proclamation as required by Section 305(5) of the 1999 Constitution as amended, I find it necessary to invoke Section 305 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 as amended, to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State, effective from today, 18th March 2025.”
As part of this declaration, President Tinubu announced:
“The Governor of Rivers State, Mr. Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Mrs. Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the House of Assembly of Rivers State are hereby suspended for an initial period of six months.”
Additionally, the President appointed Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) as Administrator to oversee the state’s affairs in the interest of the people of Rivers State.
He clarified that the judicial arm of the state will remain unaffected and will continue to function in accordance with its constitutional mandate.