Political Turmoil in Rivers State: Amaewhule’s Assembly and Fubara’s Commissioners at Loggerheads
The ongoing political crisis in Rivers State has taken a fresh turn as the state House of Assembly, led by Speaker Martin Amaewhule, issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Governor Siminialayi Fubara, demanding the sack of all commissioners and the submission of a new list of nominees. However, the state government has dismissed this directive, accusing the lawmakers of overstepping their constitutional boundaries and escalating political tensions.
Fubara Denies Ultimatum on Budget Presentation
Governor Fubara has refuted claims that he received any correspondence from the Amaewhule-led House instructing him to present the 2025 budget within 48 hours. Additionally, Deputy Governor Prof. Ngozi Odu has dismissed rumors of her resignation amid the state’s political unrest, asserting her unwavering commitment to the administration.
Rivers Assembly’s Controversial Demands
In a letter to the governor, the Amaewhule-led Assembly declared the appointment of 19 commissioners and political aides illegal, citing constitutional violations. They specifically faulted Fubara’s failure to forward the name of Dagogo Iboroma for screening as Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice, arguing that such an omission contravenes the 1999 Constitution.
State Government Counters Legislative Overreach
Sydney Tambari, Commissioner for Environment, dismissed the Assembly’s ultimatum as unconstitutional, pointing out that all commissioners had been screened by Edison Ehie, the former Speaker, recognized by a competent court. Tambari argued that the lawmakers’ demands were irrelevant since the appointments had already been validated by law, emphasizing that the Assembly had no authority to dictate executive appointments.
Supreme Court Ruling and Electoral Developments
Following the Supreme Court’s ruling, the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) has scheduled local government elections for August 9, 2025. Justice Enebeli, RSIEC Chairman, reaffirmed the commission’s autonomy in setting election timelines, despite opposition from the state legislature.
Meanwhile, the House has summoned the RSIEC Chairman to appear within 48 hours concerning an earlier scheduled local government election for October 5, 2024. The lawmakers have threatened legal action if he fails to comply.
Tensions Escalate Amidst Calls for Peace
Prominent Niger Delta leader Asari Dokubo has warned against any attempt to impeach Governor Fubara, cautioning that such a move could destabilize the state. Similarly, the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide has vowed to resist any political maneuvering aimed at undermining Fubara’s administration, framing the crisis as an ethnic struggle for political representation.
Conversely, the South-South Reawakening Group (SSRG) has urged restraint, warning against violent rhetoric and emphasizing dialogue as the best course for resolving political disagreements.
Political Violence Erupts in Elele
The crisis took a violent turn when suspected members of a local vigilante group, identified as Elele Security Planning and Advisory Committee (ESPAC), opened fire on individuals alleged to be supporters of Governor Fubara. Conflicting reports suggest that between four and eight people sustained gunshot wounds.
The Rivers State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of one suspect and the recovery of a firearm, vowing to track down the fleeing assailants. Police spokesperson Grace Iringe-Koko stated that investigations are ongoing, with the suspect set to face prosecution.
Uncertain Path Ahead
As the political crisis deepens, the coming days will determine whether a resolution can be brokered or if tensions will further escalate. With both the executive and legislative arms refusing to cede ground, Rivers State remains on edge, with stakeholders closely watching how the conflict unfolds.
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Political Turmoil in Rivers State: Amaewhule’s Assembly and Fubara’s Commissioners at Loggerheads