By Kazeem Ugbodaga
With the declaration of a State of Emergency in Rivers State on Tuesday by President Bola Tinubu, Nigeria has recorded series of State of Emergencies since independence in 1960.
Below are State of Emergencies in Nigeria:
1. Western Region (1962)
Prime Minister Tafawa Balewa declared a state of emergency in the Western Region in 1962 due to a severe political crisis within the Action Group (AG). The internal feud between Chief Obafemi Awolowo and Chief Samuel Ladoke Akintola resulted in violent clashes, legislative chaos, and widespread destruction. The region was placed under emergency rule, and Dr. Moses Majekodunmi was appointed as the administrator.
2. Plateau State (2004)
President Olusegun Obasanjo declared a state of emergency due to escalating ethno-religious violence between Muslims and Christians. Over 2,000 people were killed in riots that started in 2001. The governor, Joshua Dariye, and the State House of Assembly were suspended, and Major General Chris Alli (retd.) was appointed as administrator.
3. Ekiti State (2006)
A political crisis emerged in Ekiti State when Governor Ayo Fayose was impeached under controversial circumstances. The impeachment led to widespread unrest and a breakdown of governance. President Obasanjo imposed emergency rule and appointed Brigadier General Adetunji Olurin (retd.) as administrator.
4. Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa States (2013–2014)
President Goodluck Jonathan declared emergency rule in Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa States due to the Boko Haram insurgency. The terrorist group launched attacks, bombings, and mass abductions, including the Chibok schoolgirls’ kidnapping in 2014. The military was given sweeping powers, and security operations were intensified, but the crisis persisted.
5. Some Local Governments in Borno and Plateau (2011)
Before the 2013 full-scale emergency, President Goodluck Jonathan imposed emergency rule in some local government areas in Borno and Plateau States. This was in response to early Boko Haram attacks and communal conflicts.
6. Rivers State (2024–2025)
Amid a political power struggle between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the Rivers State House of Assembly, tensions escalated. President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency due to a breakdown of governance.
