Wike commends Tinubu for lifting Rivers State emergency rule, calling it a restoration of democracy and peace for the people

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, hailed President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday after he announced that the state of emergency declared in March had been lifted with immediate effect.

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President Tinubu had invoked Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution to impose the rule on Rivers State on 18 March 2025, suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu for six months.

Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Bias (retd.) was appointed as Sole Administrator during the emergency period.

In a televised address, the President said intelligence reports indicated “a groundswell of a new spirit of understanding” within the state, paving the way for a return to normal governance.

Reacting in a statement signed by his aide, Lere Olayinka, Wike said Tinubu’s action reaffirmed his commitment to peace and the sustenance of democracy.

He added that the President’s swift intervention in March “saved Rivers State from collapse” while Wednesday’s reversal had restored public confidence.

“The President has once again demonstrated leadership that puts democracy first,” Wike said. “His proactive decisions have secured peace, stability and the confidence of Rivers people in the democratic process.”

Wike also commended Rivers residents for their steadfast support of the President and urged stakeholders to put aside differences, warning against “fifth columnists who thrive on crisis.”

“From Rivers State going forward, the only news that will emanate will be of peace, progress and development,” the FCT Minister declared.

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The lifting of emergency rule is expected to ease political tensions in the state and allow suspended officeholders to resume their mandates.