The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has revealed that President Bola Tinubu is not inclined to extend the six-month emergency rule in Rivers State.
Wike made this known during his monthly press briefing in Abuja on Monday, emphasising that prolonging the emergency arrangement would be unpopular among the people of Rivers State.
The emergency rule was declared by President Tinubu on March 18, 2025, following escalating political tensions and a breakdown of law and order in the state.
As part of the measures, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly were suspended for six months. A retired Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, was appointed as the sole administrator to oversee the state during this period.
Wike explained that Tinubu has instead prioritised restoring democratic governance at the local level by mandating the conduct of local government elections on August 30.
According to the FCT minister, the President issued a fresh regulation in July, shortening the election preparation timeline from 360 days to just 30 days. This move is aimed at ensuring that elected officials are in place before the emergency rule expires.
“The President, from my understanding, does not want to extend the emergency rule because it will not be palatable to the people,” Nyesom Wike stated.
He further clarified that the elections would allow local governments to access funds from the Federation Account, which has been a contentious issue due to the absence of democratically elected councils.
The upcoming polls have already sparked mixed reactions, with some stakeholders questioning the legality of holding elections under emergency rule. However, Wike maintained that the process is necessary to stabilise governance in Rivers State and prevent further political crises.
The situation remains fluid as the August 30 election date approaches, with many watching to see if the emergency rule will indeed lapse as anticipated.
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