Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has declared a state of emergency in Rivers State and suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, citing an inability to control rising incidents of vandalism and militant activity in the region. This marks the first invocation of emergency rule in Nigeria since 2013.

The emergency declaration follows a recent explosion along the Trans-Niger Pipeline, though authorities have yet to provide an official explanation for the blast. Reports suggest that vandalism or sabotage by militant groups may be involved.

In a televised address, President Tinubu expressed concern over "disturbing incidents of vandalization of pipelines" occurring without any proactive measures from Governor Fubara. "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," he stated.

The president's suspension order extends not only to Fubara but also to other elected officials, including members of the state legislature, for an initial six-month period. Tinubu highlighted the dysfunction plaguing the state, stemming from a power struggle between Fubara and his predecessor, Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, which has triggered impeachment threats and attempts to dissolve the legislature.

"With the crisis persisting, there is no way democratic governance can thrive. The state has been at a standstill since the crisis began," he noted.

To oversee the administration of Rivers State during this period of emergency, Tinubu has appointed former Navy Chief Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas as caretaker.