Nigerian President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State on Tuesday, suspending the state governor, deputy governor, and all lawmakers. The decision follows reports of pipeline vandalism by militants and the alleged inaction of state authorities.
In a televised address, Tinubu cited security reports detailing “disturbing incidents of vandalization of pipelines by some militants without the governor taking any action to curtail them.”
“With all these and many more, 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,” Tinubu stated.
Earlier, police launched an investigation into a pipeline explosion in Rivers State that ignited a fire along Nigeria’s Trans Niger Pipeline, a key route transporting crude oil from onshore fields to the Bonny export terminal.
Rivers, a vital oil-producing region in the Niger Delta, has long faced security threats from militant groups that have attacked pipelines, disrupting production and exports.
The state has been embroiled in a political standoff, with rival factions within the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) clashing over leadership. Lawmakers had also threatened to impeach the governor and his deputy, further escalating tensions.
By declaring a state of emergency, Tinubu granted the federal government authority to regulate the state and deploy security forces as needed to restore order. He appointed a retired vice admiral as caretaker governor for an initial six-month period.
Tinubu confirmed that a copy of his proclamation had been sent to the National Assembly, which has the power to approve or reject the decision.
“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,” Tinubu added.
The state of emergency underscores growing concerns over security and governance in Nigeria’s oil-producing regions, with authorities vowing swift action to stabilize the situation.
