As the emergency rule in Rivers State nears its end, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation. Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Professor Ngozi Odu, and the State House of Assembly, led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, are poised to return to their positions—provided President Bola Tinubu does not extend the rule. President Tinubu, who returned early from a 10-day overseas vacation, is expected to make a definitive announcement regarding the conclusion of the emergency rule.
Vice Admiral Ibok Ette Ibas (retired), the Sole Administrator appointed during the emergency, has prepared to vacate office. He held a thanksgiving service and urged citizens to maintain the peace achieved under his administration. At a public lecture titled “Good Governance and Democratic Dividends,” Ibas emphasized the importance of democracy rooted in service, describing his tenure as a period of stabilization and restoration, especially highlighting the successful local government elections.
Ibas clarified that emergency rule was imposed out of necessity, due to rising insecurity and political instability, not as a first choice. He praised the resilience of the Rivers people and emphasized that the peace restored under his leadership is the foundation for rebuilding democracy.
However, reactions to the emergency rule have been mixed. Civil society groups and political stakeholders continue to question its necessity and legality. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) urged Governor Fubara to remain loyal, resist defecting to the All Progressives Congress (APC), and to investigate the six-month interim period under Ibas. PDP leaders stressed that Fubara must uphold party values and ensure those responsible for any mismanagement during the emergency rule are held accountable.
Critics, including members of the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) and All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), described Fubara’s return as symbolic of a political defeat, asserting that federal pressure forced his hand. Others condemned the emergency declaration itself, calling it a misuse of constitutional provisions. Analysts and legal experts cited Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, arguing that its conditions were not met and proper legislative procedures were not followed, especially regarding the suspension of elected officials.
Rivers State elders have also weighed in, advocating for unity and warning against further political discord. They called for all parties to support peace and let democratic institutions function without further interference. Meanwhile, public commentators like Israel Edache criticized the role of political “godfathers” in triggering the crisis and lamented the long-term damage to democratic governance.
As President Tinubu returns to Abuja, many believe his decision on whether to end or extend the emergency rule will have significant political implications. His early return, reportedly linked to this situation, is expected to culminate in a formal proclamation. The episode has underscored deep concerns about constitutional governance, political interference, and the fragility of democratic institutions in Nigeria.