The Federal Government has justified President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, calling it a necessary move to prevent an implosion.
Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, addressed journalists at the Aso Rock Villa, Abuja, on Wednesday, stating that the decision was made to avert a total breakdown of governance in the state.
Tinubu’s proclamation, made on Tuesday, suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the State House of Assembly for an initial six months. The President cited prolonged political instability, constitutional breaches, and security threats as justification.
In place of the suspended officials, Tinubu appointed Vice Admiral Ibok-Étè Ibas (retd.) as the sole administrator to oversee the state’s affairs. Ibas, a former Chief of Naval Staff, is expected to restore stability until further decisions are made.
