President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially lifted the six-month state of emergency in Rivers State, declaring that Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Nma Odu, and members of the State House of Assembly will resume office from midnight, September 17, 2025.
The emergency rule, imposed on March 18, 2025, followed a deep political crisis that left the state effectively leaderless. A fierce standoff between Governor Fubara and 27 lawmakers loyal to Speaker Martins Amaewhule had paralyzed governance, prompting Tinubu to invoke Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution to suspend the state’s executive and legislative arms.
In a nationwide address, Tinubu described the intervention as a painful but necessary measure to prevent anarchy and restore order. He cited vandalism of critical infrastructure, including oil pipelines, and the inability of the governor to present an appropriation bill as signs of total governance collapse.
Now, with signs of renewed cooperation among political actors in Rivers, Tinubu said the emergency rule had served its purpose. He urged all stakeholders to embrace peace and democratic principles, emphasizing that only in an atmosphere of stability can the dividends of democracy be delivered.
The return of Fubara and other officials marks a pivotal moment for Rivers State, with expectations high for reconciliation and effective governance. Political observers believe the move could reshape alliances ahead of the 2027 elections, while residents hope it signals a return to normalcy after months of uncertainty.
