Nigeria Declares State of Emergency in Rivers State, Suspends Governor

Nigerian President Bola Tinubu declared an emergency in Rivers State, suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara after a pipeline explosion. The president criticized Fubara for inaction against vandalism and appointed Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas as caretaker. This emergency reflects ongoing governance issues and conflicts in the state.

Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has announced a state of emergency in Rivers State, leading to the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara following an explosion on the Trans-Niger Pipeline. The explosion’s cause is currently unclear, although vandalism or sabotage by activist groups remains a possibility. Tinubu received reports detailing alarming incidents of pipeline vandalism, which he claims the governor failed to address adequately.

In a televised address, President Tinubu articulated his discontent with Governor Fubara’s inaction against the vandalism. He asserted, “No good and responsible president will stand by and allow the grave situation to continue without taking remedial steps prescribed by the constitution to address the situation in the state.” The suspension extends to other elected officials, including state lawmakers, for a duration of six months.

The ongoing power struggle between Governor Fubara and former Governor Ezenwo Nyesom Wike has paralyzed governance in the state, with attempts at impeachment and Fubara’s efforts to dissolve the legislature compounding the crisis. Tinubu emphasized, “With the crisis persisting, there is no way democratic governance… can thrive… The state has been at a standstill since the crisis started.” As part of the emergency governance plan, former navy chief Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas will act as caretaker for Rivers State during this interim period.

The declaration of emergency in Rivers State by President Tinubu marks a significant intervention in response to escalating pipeline vandalism. The suspension of Governor Fubara reflects concerns over the lack of effective governance amidst ongoing turmoil. Former Vice Admiral Ibas will oversee state affairs, aiming to restore stability and governance during this critical time.

Original Source: www.dw.com