On Wednesday, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara attempted to enter the State House of Assembly but was denied access, intensifying the state’s political crisis.
A widely circulated video shows Fubara, accompanied by Tribal Council members, expressing frustration over the sealed legislative complex.
“I’m here this morning to comply with the Supreme Court judgment,” Fubara said. “Before my arrival, I made several attempts by phone and sent a letter to the Speaker for this invitation.”
Despite these efforts, he found the Assembly gates firmly closed. “It’s unfortunate that the place is completely sealed, and there’s no sign that anything is going to happen today,” he added. Nevertheless, Fubara remained hopeful, saying, “I expect to hear from them maybe after this hour.”
President Tinubu Calls for Adherence to Rule of Law
This incident follows President Bola Ahmed Tinubu‘s recent emphasis on the importance of adhering to the rule of law in Rivers State.
Speaking at the State House in Abuja on Tuesday, Tinubu addressed political leaders from the Niger Delta, underscoring that respect for judicial rulings is essential for democracy and stability.
Gov. Sim Fubara went to the Rivers State Assembly Quarters this morning, but the gate was locked so he went back. pic.twitter.com/nCX6SQ7sVd
— Port Harcourt People (@AskPHPeople) March 12, 2025
He urged leaders to be selfless and focus on the broader vision of salvaging the region politically and economically by respecting court decisions.
Tinubu also advised Governor Fubara to adopt a humble approach to resolving the state’s political turmoil, urging him to “stoop to conquer” in the interest of peace and progress.
He called on Niger Delta leaders under the Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) to mediate in the crisis by counseling Fubara toward a peaceful resolution.
PANDEF had presented an eight-point agenda to Tinubu, seeking his intervention in the Rivers crisis.
Supreme Court Ruling
The political tension in Rivers State escalated following a Supreme Court ruling that affirmed the legitimacy of the 27 lawmakers led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule.
The court criticized Governor Fubara for attempting to prevent these lawmakers from participating in legislative proceedings, describing his actions as a subversion of the state’s democratic processes.
In response to the ruling, Fubara invited the 27 lawmakers loyal to former Governor Nyesom Wike for a meeting, signaling a possible shift toward reconciliation.
Despite the challenges, Fubara assured the people of Rivers State that they would emerge stronger, emphasizing his commitment to the interests of the state.
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