President Bola Ahmed Tinubu
PicNews
President Bola Tinubu has lifted the six-month state of emergency imposed on Rivers State, effective midnight on September 17, 2025. The emergency rule was declared on March 18, 2025, due to a constitutional crisis that paralyzed governance in the state, stemming from a protracted standoff between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and members of the State House of Assembly.
The crisis saw four lawmakers aligned with the governor, while 27 backed Speaker Martins Amaewhule, leaving the governor unable to present appropriation bills or access funds for state administration. The Supreme Court even observed that there was effectively “no government” in Rivers State. Critical economic assets, including oil pipelines, were being vandalized, and the state’s House of Assembly was crisis-ridden.
President Tinubu cited a “groundswell of a new spirit of understanding” among stakeholders in Rivers State as the reason for lifting the emergency rule. With effect from September 18, 2025, Governor Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Nma Odu, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly will resume their official duties. The President emphasized the importance of unity and cooperation among all parties to ensure lasting peace and effective governance.
Tinubu expressed gratitude to the National Assembly for promptly approving the proclamation and to traditional rulers and the people of Rivers State for their support during the emergency period. He also acknowledged dissenting voices who challenged the declaration in court, emphasizing that such actions are consistent with democratic practice.
The President urged governors and state legislatures nationwide to prioritize harmony and peaceful governance, noting that it’s only in an atmosphere of peace, order, and good government that the dividends of democracy can be delivered to the people. With the emergency rule lifted, Governor Fubara and the House of Assembly are expected to resume their constitutional roles, addressing pressing issues such as infrastructure development, security, and economic recovery.
