President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced the official end of the emergency rule in Rivers State, effective midnight, September 17, 2025.
The state of emergency, which began on March 18, 2025, will now give way to a full return to democratic governance. Tinubu, in a statement personally signed on Wednesday, said he was satisfied with the progress achieved under the six-month emergency rule.
He noted that intelligence reports showed a renewed spirit of cooperation among political stakeholders in Rivers. “I am happy today that there is a groundswell of understanding, readiness, and enthusiasm for a return to democracy. This is a remarkable achievement, and I do not see why the emergency rule should continue a day longer than planned,” he said.
With this decision, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Nma Odu, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, including Speaker Martins Amaewhule, will officially resume office duties from Thursday, September 18, 2025.
Tinubu stressed that peace and order remain the foundation for good governance. “I take this opportunity to remind governors and assemblies across the country that only in an atmosphere of peace and order can we deliver the dividends of democracy. Let this realisation guide your actions at all times,” the president urged.
The emergency rule was imposed following months of political unrest and violent clashes in Rivers State. Security agencies had cited threats to governance and rising instability as reasons for the intervention.
Observers say the decision to lift the emergency rule will test the ability of Rivers leaders to resolve long-standing disputes without federal oversight. Many expect renewed political negotiations as Fubara returns to Government House.
The development also signals Tinubu’s commitment to restoring democratic order while ensuring national stability. Political analysts believe the move could reshape alliances within Rivers politics ahead of the 2027 general elections.
For residents, the end of emergency rule offers hope of normalcy. Civil servants, lawmakers, and local businesses can now resume regular operations after months of restrictions.
Tinubu’s directive marks a turning point for Rivers State, but experts warn that peace can only last if all sides embrace dialogue and compromise.
The post BREAKING: Tinubu Ends Rivers Emergency Rule, Orders Fubara’s Return first appeared on Diaspora Digital Media DDM.
