GOV. SIM FUBARA RESUME DUTY ON THURSDAY 18TH SEPTEMBER

President Bola Tinubu announced on Wednesday that the six-month State of Emergency in Rivers State has been lifted. He warmly invited the suspended governor, Sim Fubara, his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly to resume their duties on Thursday, September 18.

In his statement, the President expressed his relief that peace has returned to the state, which led to this decision. Reflecting on the situation back in March 18, when the state of emergency was declared, he noted that governance had entirely collapsed, and the state House of Assembly was fragmented.

Despite efforts from himself and other caring Nigerians to mediate the conflict, both sides had remained staunchly opposed, hindering peace and the state's progress. However, President Tinubu joyfully shared that he now sees a promising spirit of understanding and cooperation among the stakeholders in Rivers State, paving the way for a return to democratic governance.

With this positive change, he felt there was no reason to extend the emergency beyond the initial six-month period. "It is with great pleasure that I announce the end of the emergency in Rivers State, effective from midnight today. Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Nma Odu, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, including Speaker Martins Amaewhule, will resume their responsibilities from September 18, 2025."

He kindly reminded all Governors and Houses of Assembly across the country to cherish peace, order, and good governance, as these are essential for delivering the benefits of democracy to the people. He encouraged everyone to let this understanding guide their actions consistently.

Addressing the nation, particularly the people of Rivers State, the President shared his happiness in speaking about the state of emergency. He recapped the situation that led to the declaration on March 18, 2025, emphasizing the paralysis of governance and the division within the State House of Assembly. This division had prevented the Governor from presenting any Appropriation Bill, thus blocking access to essential funds for running the state.

Acknowledging the severe constitutional deadlock that had halted governance, even the Supreme Court had noted the absence of effective government in Rivers State. Despite efforts to resolve the conflict, entrenched positions remained, impacting peace and development.

It became necessary for President Tinubu to invoke powers under Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution to declare the emergency. The offices of the Governor, Deputy Governor, and elected members of the State House of Assembly were initially suspended for six months, which ends today, September 17, 2025.

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NEWS GATHERED BY INSIDE9JADELTA TEAM