had reported earlier that declared a , south-south Nigeria.
President Tinubu announced in a nationwide broadcast on Tuesday evening, March 18, 2025, over the political crisis and instability in the state.
The president said Siminalayi Fubara, governor of the State; his deputy, Ngozi Odu; and all members of the Rivers assembly are “hereby ”.
“Having soberly reflected on and evaluated the political situation in Rivers State and the Governor and Deputy Governor of Rivers State having failed to make a request to me as President to issue this proclamation as required by section 305(5) of the 1999 Constitution as amended, it has become inevitably compelling for me to invoke the provision of section 305 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 as amended, to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State with effect from today, 18th March, 2025 and I so do,” the president said.
A few minutes after the President declared a , he nominated retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, a former chief of naval staff, as the state’s administrator.
Hours after the announcement, armed military men took over the Rivers Government House in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital. The military officers fully loaded in trucks, took over the entrance of the Government House.
Reacting to the development, Governor Fubara said: “My dear Rivers People,
“I address you today with a deep sense of responsibility and calm, as we navigate this unfortunate moment in our state’s political history.
“Since assuming office as your Governor, all my actions and decisions have been guided by my constitutional oath of office and a great sense of duty.
“We prioritized the protection of lives and property and ensured the continuous progress of our dear State.
“Even in the face of the political impasse, we have remained committed to constitutional order and the rule of law, putting the interest of our people above all else.
“This was why, immediately after Mr. President’s intervention to broker peace, we did not hesitate to implement the agreed terms in good faith, including welcoming back commissioners who had previously resigned on their own volition.
“Furthermore, we moved swiftly to comply with the Supreme Court’s judgement immediately we received the certified true copy of the judgement to return the state to normalcy.
“These steps were taken not for personal gains but to foster peace, unity and stability in our dear State.
“Unfortunately, at every turn, members of the Rivers State House of Assembly frustrated our efforts, thus making genuine peace and progress difficult.
“Our priorities remained the security of lives and property and advancing the well-being and prosperity of Rivers people.
“Yes, we have political disagreements, but good governance had continued, salaries have been paid, and great projects were being executed to move the State forward. Above all, Rivers State is safe, secure and peaceful under our watch.
“At this critical time, I urge all Rivers people to remain peaceful and law-abiding. We will engage with all relevant institutions to ensure that our democracy remains strong and that Rivers State continues to thrive.
“We have always been a resilient people, and we will face this situation with wisdom, patience, and unwavering faith in the democratic process.
“God bless Rivers State. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“Sir Siminalayi Fubara, GSSRS,” the statement added.
