In a dramatic escalation of the political crisis in Rivers State, constituents have initiated recall proceedings against the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Martin Amaewhule. The move, spearheaded by lawyer Kenneth Amadi, comes amid a protracted feud between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
“The Genesis of the Crisis: Defections and Court Rulings”
The crisis began when Amaewhule and 26 other lawmakers defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in December 2023. Their seats were subsequently declared vacant by a faction of the Assembly loyal to Governor Fubara. However, the Supreme Court ruled on February 28, 2025, that Amaewhule and the other lawmakers should resume their duties, ordering Fubara to re-present the 2025 budget to the Assembly under Amaewhule’s leadership.
Despite the court’s ruling, tensions have continued to rise, with Amaewhule and his allies accused of focusing on political vendettas rather than legislative duties.
“Recall Proceedings: A Legal Battle Begins”
In a letter dated March 7, 2025, and addressed to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Amadi requested a certified true copy of the voter register for Obio/Akpor Federal/State Constituency, Amaewhule’s constituency. The request is a preliminary step toward initiating recall proceedings against the Speaker.
Amadi cited several reasons for the recall, including Amaewhule’s defection from the PDP to the APC, his alleged failure to represent his constituents effectively, and his involvement in undemocratic activities. The letter also accused Amaewhule of disobeying court orders and usurping the governor’s powers.
“If the requested CTC of the voter register is not made available within seven days, the constituents will take legal action to enforce their legal rights,” the letter warned.
“Amaewhule’s Alleged Misconduct: A Growing List of Grievances”
Amadi further accused Amaewhule of violating court orders and focusing solely on targeting the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC). He noted that the Assembly has neglected its legislative duties, with no bills being read, no constituency projects initiated, and no oversight functions performed.
“The only activity that we hear and read about as the function of the Rivers State House of Assembly is ultimatums and bench warrants for the arrest of the Chairman and Commissioners of the RSIEC,” Amadi stated.
“Budget Presentation Impasse: Fubara Locked Out”
The political crisis took another turn on March 12, 2025, when Governor Fubara was prevented from presenting the 2025 budget to the Assembly. Despite notifying Amaewhule of his intention to present the budget, Fubara found the Assembly gates locked upon arrival.
Fubara accused Amaewhule of deliberately avoiding him, stating, “I called Amaewhule severally, but the Speaker refused to answer.”
“What’s Next for Rivers State?”
The recall proceedings against Amaewhule and the ongoing budget impasse highlight the deepening political crisis in Rivers State. As the feud between Fubara and Wike continues to destabilize governance, the focus remains on whether the state can find a path to reconciliation and effective leadership.
