Barrister Asukwo Mendie Archibong has thrown his support behind the six-month emergency rule declared in Rivers State, saying it was a necessary intervention to prevent political collapse and restore democratic order. In an address, he argued that the growing tension between Governor Siminalayi Fubara, the Rivers State House of Assembly, and other political actors had made governance untenable, citing stalled budgets, threats of impeachment, and recurring pipeline vandalism as signals the normal mechanisms of democracy were failing.
President Bola Tinubu announced the emergency in March 2025, suspending the governor, his deputy, and all lawmakers of the Rivers State House of Assembly under Section 305 of the Constitution. He appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas as Sole Administrator to manage state affairs for the six-month period. Archibong, in his commentary, noted that this drastic measure, while controversial, had become the only viable path to reset the system and avert descent into lawlessness.
Legislators, however, have not welcomed the suspension quietly. The House of Assembly, led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, had been in sharp conflict with Governor Fubara over issues such as the composition of committees, budget presentation, and alleged illegalities in legislative procedure. Opposition voices and legal experts also questioned the constitutionality of suspending elected officials, arguing that declaring emergency rule in that manner undermines democratic mandates. The Nigerian Bar Association, among others, raised objections.
Tinubu defended the decision, stating that the emergency rule was instituted to “arrest the drift toward anarchy” in Rivers State, with intelligence reports pointing to a breakdown in law and order. He emphasized that the judicial arm of government would continue to function, and that the emergency was temporary, designed to provide breathing space for reconciliation among political factions.
During his administration, Ibok-Ete Ibas was charged with managing everyday governance, maintaining security, and ensuring essential services continued despite the suspension of the legislature and executive arms. While he lacks lawmaking power, he has been empowered to issue regulations in the interest of public safety and order, subject to federal oversight.
Archibong also praised the performance of Administrator Ibas over the period, saying his leadership was firm and necessary under extraordinary circumstances. He urged political leaders to use the emergency window for genuine dialogue rather than power struggles, and called for accountability in how the interim administration handled security, development, and public trust.
President Tinubu, bowing to improved reports of stability and cooperation among state actors, lifted the emergency rule on 17 September 2025. The decision restores Governor Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and the full legislative assembly to their posts effective 18 September 2025. Archibong expressed optimism that Rivers State would emerge from the interlude stronger, with renewed commitment to democratic norms and more robust checks and balances between branches of government.
