Tinubu Declares Emergency in Rivers State.
On March 18, 2025, President Bola Tinubu declared a six-month state of emergency in Rivers State, suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Ngozi Odu, and the state assembly for alleged governance breakdown . He appointed Navy veteran Ibok Ekwe Ibas as sole administrator.
The move triggered legal backlash, as seven PDP-led states filed a Supreme Court suit challenging Tinubu’s unilateral suspension of democratically elected officials . They argue it breaches Sections 305 and undermines federalist principles.
This precedent-setting case hovers over the Supreme Court: can a president intervene in subnational governance without assembly vote? A decision could redefine constitutional emergency powers in Nigeria .
Meanwhile, Ibas, the interim administrator, is navigating contentious natural resource allocations and fiscal responsibilities—yet must operate under federal cabinet oversight and the judiciary remains functional.
The resolution will impact state autonomy across Nigeria, shaping the balance of power for years ahead.
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