The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has expressed confidence that the state of emergency declared in Rivers State will finally come to an end on September 18. Speaking after casting his vote in the ongoing local government elections, Wike said he expects the State Assembly to return to its legislative duties once the six-month emergency rule expires.
President Bola Tinubu had declared the emergency to douse rising political tensions in Rivers, suspending Governor Sim Fubara, his deputy, and the State House of Assembly. The move, though controversial, was aimed at preventing a total breakdown of order.
Wike, however, pointed out that the atmosphere in the state has remained peaceful, with residents turning out in large numbers for the local government polls. He stressed that with elected representatives back in place both at the state and grassroots levels, the coast is clear for normal governance to resume.
