News in brief:
– President Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State over a prolonged political crisis, suspending key officials and appointing an administrator to restore governance.
– The move has raised concerns over potential disruptions to aquaculture, a vital sector in the state, due to insecurity, movement restrictions, and supply chain challenges.
In a statement released on 18 March 2025, President Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State over a prolonged political crisis that has led to a breakdown of governance.
Rivers State is one of Nigeria’s nine coastal states and accounts for a chunk of aquaculture production in the country. There are concerns that this declaration could disrupt operations in the sub-sector.
Aquaculture sector faces disruption risks
For example, there could be movement restrictions (curfews, military checkpoints, etc.) that can hamper the transportation of fish stock, feed, and harvested products. Also, access to farms (ponds, hatcheries, and processing units) may be restricted or unsafe, especially in areas with heightened security presence or militant activity.
Even with federal intervention, uncertainty or local unrest (like militant attacks highlighted in the President’s announcement) may threaten aquaculture infrastructure—fish farms, cold storage, and supply chains could be damaged or abandoned.
In addition, fear of theft, vandalism, or sabotage increases, leading to reduced investment or shutdowns.
Economic fallout and federal intervention
Supply chains for fish and seafood to local markets or urban centres like Port Harcourt, and the rest of the country, could be interrupted, causing losses to producers and price spikes for consumers. Even export routes, especially for catfish and shrimp (key aquaculture products), may be delayed or blocked due to logistical hurdles or port disruptions.
Investors, both local and foreign, may pull back from aquaculture due to risk aversion, leading to stalled or cancelled projects. Input suppliers (feed, drugs, equipment) may also withdraw or raise prices due to risk premiums.
The crisis in Rivers State stems from executive overreach, legislative paralysis, constitutional breaches, and a failure to maintain security and governance, leading to federal intervention. The situation remains tense, with the hope that this intervention will restore order and re-establish constitutional governance.
President Tinubu suspended the Governor, Deputy Governor, and all House of Assembly members for an initial six-month period. He appointed Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) as Administrator to manage the state’s affairs temporarily but the judiciary remains functional and unaffected by this declaration.
