According to reports, Tinubu ordered the suspended governor to return to work on Thursday, September 18, in a statement.
The following are President Tinubu’s seven main points:
1. An Overview of the Emergency Situation
President Tinubu reminded Nigerians that the paralysis of administration in Rivers State led to the declaration of a state of emergency on March 18, 2025. There was a void in governance as a result of the governor-house of assembly rift, damage to important property, and a constitutional deadlock that prevented the Appropriation Bill from moving forward.
2. The Role of the Supreme Court and Ineffective Mediation
He pointed out that the Supreme Court at the time declared that Rivers State had no government. Since both sides remained inflexible and unyielding, his and other leaders’ several attempts at intervention failed.
3. Using the Constitution’s Powers
Invoking Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution to declare a state of emergency and suspend the governor, deputy governor, and members of the state assembly for six months was unavoidable, according to Tinubu.
4. Stakeholders and the National Assembly’s role
The President emphasized the need of restoring peace and order and praised the National Assembly, traditional leaders, and Rivers State residents for their support of the emergency measures.
5. Justification and Legal Challenges
Tinubu emphasized that such challenges are a natural aspect of democracy while acknowledging that the proclamation has been the subject of over 40 litigation. He did, however, support the action as a constitutional protection against the collapse of safety and public order.
6. Democratic Governance Restored
Tinubu said that the state of emergency would end at midnight on September 17, 2025, in light of fresh intelligence and a better understanding among interested parties. Speaker Martins Amaewhule, Assembly members, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, and Deputy Governor Ngozi Nma Odu will all return to work on September 18, 2025.
7. Demand Good Governance and Peace
The president asked state assemblies and governors across the country to keep in mind that delivering the benefits of democracy requires peace, order, and collaboration between the legislative and executive branches.
