On March 18th, 2025, a state of emergency was declared in Rivers State, Nigeria, due to a complete breakdown of governance. This stemmed from a deep-seated conflict between the Governor and the State House of Assembly, paralyzing the state’s ability to function. The legislature was fractured, with a small minority supporting the Governor and a large majority aligning with the Speaker. This division prevented the Governor from presenting the Appropriation Bill, effectively halting access to state funds and bringing governance to a standstill. The Supreme Court even acknowledged the absence of effective government in Rivers State. Efforts to mediate the conflict were unsuccessful, forcing presidential intervention through the constitutional power to declare a state of emergency. This action suspended the Governor, Deputy Governor, and members of the State House of Assembly for an initial six-month period.
The declaration, while necessary, was not without its detractors. Over 40 legal challenges were filed in various courts across the country, contesting the validity of the state of emergency. However, the constitutional provision for such a declaration is designed to address precisely this type of situation: the actual or imminent breakdown of public order and safety. The situation in Rivers State exemplified this, warranting the extraordinary measures taken to restore peace and stability. The National Assembly, recognizing the gravity of the circumstances, endorsed the declaration, demonstrating a shared commitment to resolving the crisis.
The six-month period of the state of emergency, expiring on September 17th, 2025, provided a critical window for reflection and potential reconciliation among the involved parties. While some legal challenges remained unresolved, a significant shift in the political landscape emerged. A renewed spirit of understanding and cooperation among the stakeholders in Rivers State became evident, signaling a potential pathway back to democratic governance. This positive development, reflecting a collective desire to move forward, obviated the need to extend the state of emergency.
Acknowledging this progress, the President announced the termination of the state of emergency in Rivers State, effective midnight, September 17th, 2025. This decision allowed the Governor, Deputy Governor, and members of the State House of Assembly to resume their duties on September 18th, 2025. The resumption of normal governmental functions signified a crucial step toward rebuilding trust and restoring stability in the state. The successful resolution of the crisis offered a valuable lesson for all levels of government in Nigeria.
The president emphasized the critical importance of a harmonious relationship between the executive and legislative branches of government. Effective governance, at both the state and national levels, hinges on this collaborative relationship. The citizens, who elect these officials, rightfully expect the delivery of democratic dividends, which can only be achieved in an environment of peace, order, and good governance. The crisis in Rivers State served as a stark reminder of the consequences of political discord and the imperative of collaborative governance.
The Rivers State experience underscores a fundamental truth: political maneuvering and power struggles ultimately hinder the progress and development of a state. The temporary suspension of democratic processes, though an extreme measure, provided the necessary impetus for reflection and reconciliation. The subsequent return to democratic governance, marked by a renewed commitment to collaboration, offers a positive outlook for the future of Rivers State. This experience serves as a valuable case study for other states, highlighting the importance of maintaining a healthy and productive relationship between the different branches of government.
