The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has expressed confidence that the state of emergency in Rivers State will officially expire on September 18, 2025.

Wike disclosed this on Saturday after casting his vote in the ongoing local government elections in Rivers State. He noted that the expiration of the emergency rule would allow the Rivers State House of Assembly to resume legislative duties, restoring political stability to the state.

Wike Confident in Peaceful Transition

Speaking to journalists after voting, Wike said the election was conducted peacefully, with residents turning out in large numbers.

“As far as we are concerned, this election is peaceful, people are trooping out, and at the end of the day, the election has been conducted successfully. I do know that by September 18, the state of emergency will expire, and the state assembly will return to their job. We will also have a functioning government at the grassroots level,” Wike stated.

Why the Emergency Rule Was Declared

President Bola Tinubu had earlier imposed an emergency rule in Rivers State to prevent a deepening political crisis. The move suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and the Rivers State House of Assembly for six months.

According to Wike, conditions are now favorable for lifting the order since both the state and local governments have regained representation.

“The coast is clear for the state of emergency to be lifted, being that the state government has its representative and the local government has its representatives. So, we are good to go,” he added.

What to Expect After September 18

With the emergency rule nearing its expiration, Rivers residents anticipate a return to legislative and democratic governance. The resumption of the House of Assembly is expected to restore stability and strengthen governance structures across the state.