The political impasse in Rivers State is not abetting. If anything, it has taken a worrisome dimension as lawmakers refused to attend a peace meeting called by Governor Siminalayi Fubara on Monday.
The meeting, scheduled for 10 a.m. at the Government House in Port Harcourt, was meant to address pressing governance issues, including the 2025 budget presentation and lawmakers’ unpaid allowances.
Lawmakers Reject Invitation
Governor Fubara’s invitation was sent via a letter signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Tammy Danagogo. The letter, dated March 7, invited Speaker Martins Amaewhule and 26 other lawmakers for discussions on state matters, including allocating a permanent sitting venue for the Assembly.
However, lawmakers refused to attend, arguing that the invitation was poorly handled.
A viral video on social media showed Hon. Lolo Isaiah Opuende, representing Akuku-Toru Constituency II, criticizing the governor’s approach.
“How can you write a letter and post it on social media and expect us to come? No, we are not kids. The governor should write to the Assembly in a proper way; that is all,” he said.
Some sources also questioned the government’s sincerity, pointing out that the governor had a project commissioning event scheduled around the same time as the meeting.
Arrest Warrant for RSIEC Chairman
In a another development, the House of Assembly issued an arrest warrant for Justice Adolphus Enebeli (Rtd), Chairman of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC).
The Assembly, led by Speaker Amaewhule, accused Enebeli of ignoring a 72-hour ultimatum to appear before the House to explain irregularities in the annulled local government elections held on October 5, 2024.
The Supreme Court had previously voided the elections due to procedural flaws and ordered a fresh poll for August 9, 2025. Enebeli’s failure to appear before lawmakers led to the drastic decision to demand his arrest.
Adding to the turmoil, the Supreme Court has barred federal financial institutions from releasing funds to Rivers State until the government complies with its directives.
APC Chairman Calls for Governor’s Resignation
Not to be outdone by the Assembly in its hostilities to the governor, Rivers State APC chapter openly called on Governor Fubara to either resign or face impeachment.
Speaking at a news conference in Port Harcourt on Monday, state party Chairman Tony Okocha described the governor’s invitation to lawmakers as a “Greek gift.”
“The Supreme Court judgment is final. There is nothing anybody can do about it. The only option available to the governor now is for him to resign or be impeached,” Okocha said.
Okocha further accused Fubara of failing to uphold the rule of law, referencing past ultimatums given by the Assembly. The lawmakers had earlier demanded the governor dismiss commissioners and board members who had not been screened by the House and comply with directives regarding the budget presentation.
The Supreme Court ruling, which many expected to resolve Rivers State’s political deadlock, may have worsened tensions, with both factions interpreting the judgment in their favor.
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