Tinubu Lifts State of Emergency in Rivers State
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced the end of the six-month state of emergency in Rivers State, effective midnight of September 17, 2025. Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Nma Odu, and members of the State House of Assembly are set to resume their constitutional duties from September 18.
The President declared the state of emergency on March 18, 2025, citing a breakdown of governance, a legislative crisis, and vandalism of critical state assets. At the time, deep divisions within the State Assembly and the inability of the governor to present an appropriation bill had stalled governance, prompting the intervention.
Speaking on the decision to lift the emergency, Tinubu explained that intelligence reports indicate a renewed spirit of cooperation among political stakeholders in the state. He noted that the suspension of the governor, deputy governor, and lawmakers, which was initially approved by the National Assembly for six months, would not be extended.
“I am happy today that there is a groundswell of understanding and readiness for an immediate return to democratic governance in Rivers State,” Tinubu stated. “It therefore gives me great pleasure to declare that the emergency shall end with effect from midnight today.”
He thanked traditional rulers, residents of Rivers State, and the National Assembly for their support during the period, while acknowledging dissenting voices and court cases challenging the proclamation as part of democratic expression.
The President emphasized that declaring a state of emergency was a constitutional tool necessary to restore peace, order, and public safety in times of political paralysis.
Tinubu also used the occasion to urge governors and state assemblies across the country to foster harmonious relations between the executive and legislative arms for effective governance.
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