The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and former Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike, has declared that the coast is now clear for the termination of the emergency rule in Rivers State.
Speaking shortly after casting his vote in the just concluded local government elections, Wike explained that the peaceful conduct of the polls has opened the pathway for full democratic governance to return to the state. According to him, the elections mark a critical milestone in meeting the conditions set out for lifting the six-month emergency declared by President Bola Tinubu in March.
The emergency rule, which suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and the State House of Assembly, was imposed on March 18 following heightened political instability and widespread security concerns. During the period, retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas was appointed as sole administrator to steer the affairs of the state.
President Tinubu, in a move widely interpreted as a sign of commitment to restoring democracy, had earlier directed that local government elections must be conducted within 30 days instead of the previous 360-day allowance. Wike said the President’s decision was clear evidence that Tinubu did not wish to prolong emergency governance in the state.
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With today’s polls successfully conducted, Wike expressed confidence that the emergency rule will officially expire on September 18, paving the way for the return of the suspended State Assembly and full restoration of grassroots governance. He stressed that Rivers people would soon regain both local and state representation after months of direct federal oversight.
Observers believe the peaceful elections have further consolidated the reconciliation process between Wike and Governor Fubara, who had earlier declared an end to their rift following President Tinubu’s intervention. Legal experts also note that the election of council leaders addresses Supreme Court restrictions against caretaker committees and ensures legitimate access to federal allocations.
For now, all eyes are on September 18, the date Rivers residents hope will mark the end of emergency rule and the return of full democratic order in the state.
