Wike hints at end of emergency rule in Rivers as Tinubu orders LG elections in 30 days

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has indicated that the ongoing six-month emergency rule in Rivers State may not be extended, as President Bola Tinubu has directed the conduct of local government elections within the next 30 days.

Wike, a former governor of Rivers State, made the disclosure during a media chat held in Abuja on Monday. He revealed that President Tinubu is eager to see a swift return to democratic governance at the grassroots level in the oil-rich state.

“The President, from my understanding, does not want the emergency rule extended because doing so will not be palatable to the people,” Wike said.

According to him, a new regulation signed by the President in July shortens the timeline for local government elections to 30 days, replacing the earlier provision that allowed for a 360-day window. The directive is seen as a deliberate move to restore democratic order and calm tensions in the state.

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Wike also confirmed that the state’s current interim administrator, Vice Admiral (rtd) Ibok-Ete Ibas, who was appointed in March, has the constitutional authority to oversee the electoral process and ensure a smooth transition back to civilian-led local councils.

President Tinubu had declared a state of emergency in Rivers on March 18, 2025, following escalating political violence and a breakdown of law and order, which resulted in widespread unrest and disruption of governance across the state.

With the President’s new directive, the countdown to lifting the emergency rule and reinstating elected local officials has begun, marking a significant shift toward political stability in Rivers State.