Why it matters:
The declaration came just hours after a powerful explosion was reported at an oil facility in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area. Also, the Trans-Niger Pipeline, operated by Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), went up in flames, further escalating tensions in the state which has been embroiled in a political crisis.
The big picture:
About six months into Governor Fubara’s administration, a disagreement ensued between the governor and his predecessor Nyeson Wike (now minister of Abuja) which culminated in an attempt to impeach the governor by state lawmakers, who many Nigerians believe were being sponsored by the minister.
Three days ago, Niger Delta militant group issued a fresh threat to blow up pipelines over a recent Supreme Court judgment ordering the seizure of the state and local government allocations of Rivers, one of the major oil-producing states in Nigeria.
What he's saying:
President Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, effective March 18, 2025, citing unrest and pipeline vandalism by militants. He lamented Governor Fubara and his deputy's lack of communication and inaction against the militants who threatened violence. Tinubu stated he ordered security forces to protect citizens and oil pipelines after the Governor failed to request federal intervention as required by the constitution, compelling him to invoke section 305.
Go deeper:
By declaring the State of Emergency, now the oil-producing state will be under military rule for six months.
Hossein Amiri
