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Reported by Amos Dachung โ Sele Media Africa Reporter
September 17, 2025
Rivers: Hopes, Mixed Views as Emergency Ends Tomorrow
As of tomorrow, September 18, 2025, the sixโmonth emergency rule declared in Rivers State is due to expire, setting the stage for Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and members of the State House of Assembly to resume their official roles.[1]
What Happened & Why
โขโ โ On March 18, 2025, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State.[2]
โขโ โ This move came amid escalating political crisis between the thenโgovernor and his predecessor (and Minister of the FCT), Nyesom Wike, including disputes over the State House of Assembly and pipeline vandalism.[2]
โขโ โ The emergency included suspension of Governor Fubara, his deputy Prof. Ngozi Odu, and lawmakers. Vice Admiral (retd.) IbokโEte Ibas was appointed sole administrator.[2]
What Citizens & Analysts Say
โขโ โ Optimism & Relief: Many residents are hopeful that the end of emergency rule will restore democratic governance, improve accountability, and allow local governance structures to resume full operations.[1]
โขโ โ Mixed Reactions: While some praise the relative stability under the emergency administration, others worry about what sort of governance will return. Critiques include concern over possible lingering effects on governmentโlegislature relations and whether institutions weakened during the emergency will rebound.[3]
โขโ โ Calls for Accountability: Political parties, especially the PDP, are demanding accountability for how the state was managed during the emergency rule. There are calls to investigate the handling of public funds, the decision making, and whether constitutional norms were respected.[1]
What to Expect After the Emergency Ends
โขโ โ Governor Fubara is expected to reassume his duties, along with his deputy and the State House of Assembly.[1]
โขโ โ There is emphasis from the outgoing administrator, IbokโEte Ibas, on preserving the peace that has been restored and building upon it.[1]
โขโ โ Civil society (including elders and opposition groups) are urging unity and dialogue, to avoid renewed tensions or a relapse into crisis.[1]
Challenges That Remain
โขโ โ Reโestablishing trust between political actors (executive, legislature, local government authorities).
โขโ โ - Addressing grievances from citizens about governance during the emergency: transparency, respect for democratic processes, and restoring normalcy.
โขโ โ Ensuring that stability does not give way to renewed power struggles, especially as elections approach.
For more news on Rivers State and democratic transitions, visit www.selemedia.org.
Citations:
1.โ โ Vanguard News: www.vanguardngr.com/2025/09/rivers-hopes-mixed-views-as-emergency-ends-tomorrow/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
2.โ โ Reuters: www.reuters.com/world/africa/nigerian-president-declares-state-emergency-oil-producing-rivers-state-2025-03-18/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
3.โ โ Vanguard News: www.vanguardngr.com/2025/09/mixed-reactions-trail-end-of-rivers-emergency-rule/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
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