Nigerian President Bola Tinubu suspended Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and declared an emergency following a pipeline explosion. Citing the governor’s inaction on vandalism, Tinubu criticized the ongoing crisis’s impact on governance. Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas has been appointed as caretaker leader for six months to manage state affairs.
On March 19, 2025, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, resulting in the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara following a pipeline explosion on the Trans-Niger Pipeline. The cause of the explosion has not yet been officially identified; however, possibilities of vandalism or sabotage by militant groups are still being considered. The president highlighted concerning reports of ongoing pipeline vandalization, attributing a lack of action from the governor.
President Tinubu criticized Governor Fubara for his inaction regarding the rampant pipeline damage in the region, stating, “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.” He announced that the suspension would also affect state lawmakers and would last six months.
The approval for the suspension follows a prolonged power struggle between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, which has resulted in significant political instability in Rivers State. Tinubu stated, “With the crisis persisting, there is no way democratic governance… can thrive,” indicating that the ongoing turmoil has impeded governmental functions.
To manage the affairs of Rivers State during this period, Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas, a former navy chief, has been appointed as caretaker leader, tasked with overseeing state operations for an initial term of six months as the state aims to regain stability.
The declaration of an emergency rule in Rivers State marks a significant intervention by President Tinubu, attributed to Governor Fubara’s failure to address pipeline vandalism. The appointment of Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas as caretaker signifies an intention to restore order amid ongoing political struggles. This move reflects a broader concern for governance and security in a volatile region heavily impacted by oil-related conflicts.
Original Source: www.dw.com
