President Bola Tinubu announced the end of the six-month state of emergency in Rivers State, effective midnight today.
President Tinubu in a statement released on today by the Presidency recalled that the state of emergency was declared on March 18, 2025, due to a total breakdown of governance that left the executive and legislature in conflict, stalled passage of appropriation bills, and crippled economic activities, including oil pipeline protection.
He explained that despite interventions, both sides refused to compromise, forcing him to invoke Section 305 of the Constitution to suspend the governor, deputy governor, and lawmakers for six months.
President Tinubu added that the Supreme Court had earlier held that there was effectively no government in Rivers State at the height of the crisis.
The President stated that, with intelligence reports indicating a renewed spirit of cooperation among stakeholders, there was no need to extend the emergency beyond the initial six months.
He thanked the National Assembly, traditional rulers, and residents of Rivers State for their support, while acknowledging dissenting voices who challenged the proclamation in court.
President Tinubu further emphasized that the power to declare an emergency is a constitutional safeguard to restore order and prevent anarchy, stressing that governance can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace and cooperation.
He confirmed that Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Nma Odu, Speaker Martins Amaewhule, and other lawmakers would resume their offices on September 18, 2025.