Amid heightened political tension in Rivers State, President Bola Tinubu has suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for six months. In their place, the President has appointed Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) as the state administrator.
Ibas, a former Chief of Naval Staff (2015–2021), will now oversee the affairs of the oil-rich South-South state following Tinubu’s declaration during a nationwide broadcast on Tuesday.
Tinubu Justifies Suspension, Clarifies Scope of Emergency Rule
In his address, President Tinubu defended the move, insisting that it was in the best interest of Rivers residents amid the ongoing political crisis.
“By this declaration, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly are hereby suspended for an initial period of six months,” Tinubu stated.
He further announced the nomination of Vice Admiral Ibas as Administrator, emphasizing that his appointment was meant to ensure stability and governance continuity in the state.
“In the meantime, I hereby nominate Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) as Administrator to take charge of the affairs of the state in the interest of the good people of Rivers State,” the President declared.
Judiciary to Remain Functional, Limited Powers for Administrator
While the executive and legislative branches of the state government have been suspended, Tinubu clarified that the judicial arm would remain operational.
“For the avoidance of doubt, this declaration does not affect the judicial arm of Rivers State, which shall continue to function in accordance with its constitutional mandate,” he assured.
Regarding Ibas’ authority, the President noted that while the Administrator will oversee the state’s affairs, he will not have the power to enact new laws. However, he may introduce necessary regulations, subject to approval by the Federal Executive Council and promulgation by the President.
“The Administrator will not make any new laws. He will, however, be free to formulate regulations as may be found necessary to do his job, but such regulations will need to be considered and approved by the Federal Executive Council and promulgated by the President for the state,” Tinubu explained.
The suspension of Rivers’ elected officials and the appointment of a federal administrator has sparked significant debate, with political observers and stakeholders analyzing its constitutional and political implications.
