By Ayo Ayodele
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced the end of the six-month state of emergency in Rivers State, declaring that normal democratic governance will resume in the state effective midnight of September 17, 2025.
The President, in a national broadcast on Tuesday, recalled that the emergency was declared on March 18, 2025, following a constitutional crisis that crippled governance in the state. He noted that the protracted conflict between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the Rivers State House of Assembly had led to a paralysis of government, vandalism of economic assets, and heightened insecurity.
Tinubu said attempts by his administration and other stakeholders to mediate in the crisis were unsuccessful, as both the executive and legislative arms of the state remained divided. With governance at a standstill, he explained, the decision to invoke Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution was unavoidable.
“The offices of the governor, deputy governor, and elected members of the State House of Assembly were suspended for six months in the first instance. The six months expire today, September 17, 2025,” Tinubu stated.
He expressed appreciation to the National Assembly for approving the proclamation and commended traditional rulers and the people of Rivers State for their cooperation during the period.
While acknowledging dissenting voices that challenged the proclamation in court, the President maintained that the measure was necessary to avert anarchy. He emphasized that harmony between the executive and legislature is vital to the delivery of democratic dividends.
Tinubu disclosed that fresh intelligence indicates a “new spirit of understanding” and willingness among Rivers political stakeholders to work together. Consequently, Governor Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Nma Odu, Speaker Martins Amaewhule, and other members of the House of Assembly are to resume office on September 18, 2025.
The President urged leaders across the country to prioritize peace and good governance, warning that democracy cannot thrive in an atmosphere of violence and division.
“Let this realisation drive your actions at all times,” he told governors and legislators nationwide.