On the evening of Tuesday, March 18, Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, had everyone shook when he declared a state of emergency in Rivers State during a nationwide broadcast.
The declaration also included the instant suspension of the state governor, Sim Fubara, his deputy, Ngozi Odu, and the state assembly for six months.
Tinubu said that his decision became necessary following the political unrest in the state, which, according to him, has led to the destruction of several pipelines by militants.
To take charge of the state’s administration while the governor and the assembly serve their suspension, the President appointed Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (rtd) as the military administrator.
Immediately after Tinubu’s declaration, military trucks moved into the Rivers State government house. Daily Trust also reported that the governor’s whereabouts could not be ascertained suggesting it was likely he found out about the suspension beforehand.
Hours later, however, the governor’s official statement on the matter was made available to journalists by the state’s Commissioner for Information and Communication, Joe Johnson. Read the full text of the governor’s message below.
My dear Rivers People,
I address you today with a deep sense of responsibility and calm, as we navigate this unfortunate moment in our state’s political history.
Since assuming office as your Governor, all my actions and decisions have been guided by my constitutional oath of office and a great sense of duty.
We prioritized the protection of lives and property and ensured the continuous progress of our dear State.
Even in the face of the political impasse, we have remained committed to constitutional order and the rule of law, putting the interest of our people above all else.
This was why, immediately after Mr. President’s intervention to broker peace, we did not hesitate to implement the agreed terms in good faith, including welcoming back commissioners who had previously resigned on their own volition.
Furthermore, we moved swiftly to comply with the Supreme Court’s judgement immediately we received the certified true copy of the judgement to return the state to normalcy.
These steps were taken not for personal gains but to foster peace, unity and stability in our dear State.
Unfortunately, at every turn, members of the Rivers State House of Assembly frustrated our efforts, thus making genuine peace and progress difficult.
Our priorities remained the security of lives and property and advancing the well-being and prosperity of Rivers people.
Yes, we have political disagreements, but good governance had continued, salaries have been paid, and great projects were being executed to move the State forward. Above all, Rivers State is safe, secure and peaceful under our watch.
At this critical time, I urge all Rivers people to remain peaceful and law-abiding. We will engage with all relevant institutions to ensure that our democracy remains strong and that Rivers State continues to thrive.
We have always been a resilient people, and we will face this situation with wisdom, patience, and unwavering faith in the democratic process.
God bless Rivers State. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Sir Siminalayi Fubara, GSSRS
