Tinubu Ends Six-Month State of Emergency in Rivers State, Restores Elected Officials

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has lifted the six-month state of emergency in Rivers State, reinstating Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Nma Odu, and all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly.


The emergency was first declared on 18 March 2025 in response to a severe governance impasse between Governor Fubara and the State House of Assembly. The legislature was deeply divided, budget approvals stalled, and critical infrastructure, including oil pipelines, was frequently vandalised. These conflicts paralysed state government functions.


During the emergency, retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas was appointed Sole Administrator to oversee Rivers State. The judiciary was allowed to continue its work during this period.


Tinubu said the emergency is being lifted because intelligence indicates there is now a “groundswell of a new spirit of understanding, a robust readiness, and potent enthusiasm” among political stakeholders in the state. He emphasised that the state of emergency has achieved its purpose and should not remain in force longer than necessary.


The reinstatement takes effect from 18 September 2025, when Governor Fubara, his deputy, and the legislature will resume their duties. Tinubu also thanked the National Assembly for approving the emergency declaration, traditional rulers, and Rivers State citizens for their support during the period.

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