President Bola Tinubu has officially ended the six-month State of Emergency in Rivers State, effective from midnight Wednesday, September 17, 2025.
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In a statement, the President explained that the decision followed the restoration of peace and stability in the state. He directed Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Nma Odu, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, including Speaker Martins Amaewhule, to resume their official responsibilities on Thursday, September 18.
The state of emergency was initially imposed on March 18, 2025, due to an alleged collapse in governance, division within the Assembly, and vandalism of vital infrastructure such as oil pipelines. The declaration was made under Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution and approved by the National Assembly.
President Tinubu noted that intelligence reports indicated a renewed willingness among state stakeholders to engage in democratic governance. He emphasized that peace and cooperation between the executive and legislature are essential for delivering the benefits of democracy.
The move comes after more than 40 court cases challenged the emergency declaration, with some Supreme Court judgments highlighting the governance deadlock in Rivers State.
Tinubu also called on governors and state assemblies across Nigeria to foster harmony to ensure effective governance.