President Bola Tinubu has officially announced the suspension of Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, along with his deputy, Mrs. Ngozi Odu, for a period of six months. This unexpected decision has sent shockwaves across the nation, raising concerns about the political stability of the state.
The announcement was made during a nationwide broadcast on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, where the president cited reasons for the suspension, emphasizing that it was necessary for the governance and stability of Rivers State.
While delivering the statement, President Tinubu declared:
“By this declaration, the Governor of Rivers State, Mr. Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, Mrs. Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the House of Assembly of Rivers State are hereby suspended for an initial period of six months.”
In addition to the suspension, President Tinubu revealed that a new administrator had been appointed to oversee the affairs of the state in the interim. The appointee, Ibokette Ibas, a retired vice admiral, has been tasked with managing the governance of the state to ensure the continuity of leadership.
He further clarified that the judicial arm of government in Rivers State would remain unaffected by this suspension and would continue to operate in line with constitutional provisions.
“For the avoidance of doubt, this declaration does not affect the judicial arm of Rivers State, which shall continue to function in accordance with their constitutional mandate,” the president stated.
This development has sparked widespread reactions across political circles, with many questioning the legal and constitutional grounds of the suspension. Citizens and stakeholders in Rivers State are eagerly awaiting further clarifications on the decision.
More details will be provided as the situation unfolds…