Tinubu Declares State of Emergency in Rivers State after Pipeline Explosion
Identifying a pressing need for intervention, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has declared a state of emergency in Rivers State and suspended its governor, Siminalayi Fubara, following the explosion at the Trans-Niger Pipeline. The cause of the explosion is currently under investigation by the police, with sabotage by militant groups being a possible motive.
Tinubu expressed his concern over the inaction of the governor in curbing the repeated vandalism of oil pipelines, which has led to frequent oil spills. He highlighted that the high value of oil on the black market has driven both militants and civilians to exploit these pipelines.
In a televised broadcast, Tinubu stated that as a responsible leader, he could not ignore the severe situation and inefficient governance in Rivers State. As a result, he has suspended the governor and other key officials for six months.
A protracted political conflict between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has led to governance paralysis, with attempts of impeachment and the dissolution of the legislature. Tinubu lamented that the crisis has left Rivers State financially and administratively stagnant.
To address the crisis, Nigeria’s former navy chief, Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas, has been appointed as caretaker governor for an initial period of six months.
Edits by Louis Oelofse.
