President Tinubu Declares Emergency and Suspends Rivers State Governor

President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria has suspended Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and declared a state of emergency following a pipeline explosion. The president criticized the governor’s lack of action against pipeline vandalism. Former Navy Chief Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas will serve as caretaker for six months amid ongoing political instability in the region.

In Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu has enacted a state of emergency in Rivers State, resulting in the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara. This decision follows an explosion at a section of the Trans-Niger Pipeline, although the police have not confirmed whether vandalism or sabotage by militant groups caused the incident. The president highlighted worrying instances of pipeline vandalism occurring without effective response from the governor.

President Tinubu criticized Governor Fubara’s inaction regarding increasing vandalism incidents, stating that no responsible president could permit such a critical situation to persist without constitutional remedies. During a televised address, he announced the suspension of the governor, alongside other elected officials, including state lawmakers, for a duration of six months.

A power struggle has emerged between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, leading to political instability marked by impeachment attempts and disputes over legislative authority. Tinubu emphasized that ongoing crises hinder the possibility of democratic governance, stating, “The state has been at a standstill since the crisis started.” Following this upheaval, former Navy Chief Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas will oversee the administration of Rivers State as caretaker for the initial six-month period.

The state of emergency declared in Rivers State, accompanied by the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, highlights Nigeria’s ongoing challenges with pipeline vandalism and political strife. President Tinubu’s decision reflects a need for decisive leadership and accountability in addressing these issues. The appointment of a caretaker administrator aims to restore governance as the region confronts ongoing crises.

Original Source: www.dw.com