Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, and his family are currently being held against their will in the Government House, as heavily armed soldiers have taken control of the premises.
The lockdown began on Tuesday night, shortly after President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, citing an ongoing political crisis.
According to eyewitnesses, soldiers blocked all entry and exit points, preventing movement in and out of the compound. When Governor Fubara and his family attempted to move their belongings out, soldiers refused, enforcing a strict lockdown.
The crisis in Rivers State began when lawmakers loyal to former Governor Nyesom Wike initiated impeachment proceedings against Governor Fubara. President Tinubu’s emergency order suspends all parties involved in the crisis, including Fubara, for six months.
However, legal experts and social media users have questioned the constitutionality of Tinubu’s actions, arguing that a governor cannot be removed without due process. Some lawyers have strongly criticized the president, accusing him of overstepping his constitutional powers.
In the meantime, President Tinubu has appointed retired Chief of Naval Staff Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas as the interim military administrator of Rivers State.
