President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State and suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara due to pipeline vandalism and an explosion. Tinubu criticized the governor’s inaction and appointed Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas as caretaker for six months.
The Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, resulting in the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara following an explosion on the Trans-Niger Pipeline. While the police have yet to provide a definitive explanation for the explosion, the potential involvement of vandalism or sabotage by militant groups remains under consideration. Tinubu received reports indicating concerning instances of pipeline vandalization by militants, highlighting the governor’s lack of action in addressing these issues.
President Tinubu expressed dissatisfaction with Governor Fubara, criticizing his inaction regarding the escalating incidents of pipeline vandalism. In a televised address, he stated, “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.” This criticism underscored the urgency of the matter.
In accordance with the declared emergency, President Tinubu has suspended Fubara and other elected officials, including state lawmakers, for a period of six months. He noted that a power struggle between Fubara and his predecessor Ezenwo Nyesom Wike had resulted in governmental paralysis and thwarted the potential for democratic governance. “With the crisis persisting, there is no way democratic governance… can thrive… The state has been at a standstill since the crisis started,” Tinubu remarked.
To oversee the administration of Rivers State during this tumultuous period, Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas, a former chief of Nigeria’s navy, will serve as caretaker for an initial six-month term. This appointment aims to restore order and governance amid the declared emergency.
In summary, Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu has declared a state of emergency in Rivers State and suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara due to escalating pipeline vandalism and a recent explosion. Tinubu criticized Fubara’s lack of response to these issues, which have created a governance crisis. Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas will assume caretaker responsibilities to help restore stability in the state during this emergency period.
Original Source: www.dw.com
