President Bola Tinubu is expected to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State due to the worsening political crisis, according to two presidency sources who spoke on Tuesday morning.
Tensions are escalating between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, as calls for the governor’s removal from office gain momentum.
The Rivers State House of Assembly has issued an impeachment notice to Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Odu, citing gross misconduct.
President Tinubu has reportedly appointed retired military chief Ekwe Ibas to oversee Rivers State during the emergency period, amid increasing unrest in the key oil hub.
A late Monday night explosion at the Trans-Niger Pipeline in Bodo, Gokana Local Government Area, sparked a fire, raising concerns of possible sabotage as investigations continue.
Protests have also erupted across the state in response to the impeachment move.
Tinubu met with security chiefs, including the Chief of Defence Staff and National Security Adviser, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Tuesday.
Also in attendance were top lawmakers, including the Senate President and House Speaker. The meeting’s details were not disclosed, but it is believed to be connected to the escalating crisis in Rivers State.
