The political landscape in Rivers State has once again been rocked by controversy as Governor Siminalayi Fubara and members of the State House of Assembly engage in a heated power tussle. Since the Supreme Court reinstated lawmakers loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, the battle for dominance has escalated, leading to accusations, counter-accusations, and governance setbacks.
Governor Fubara vs. Rivers Assembly: The Budget Presentation Controversy
Governor Fubara recently accused the State Assembly of frustrating his attempt to re-present the 2025 budget, a claim that lawmakers have vehemently denied. According to Hon. Enemi George, Chairman of the Rivers State House of Assembly Committee on Information, the governor’s allegations are baseless.
“We have been pleading with the governor to present the budget. He falsely claims he sent a letter to the House, but there’s no record of such communication. Instead, we see supposed letters circulating on social media, clearly aimed at manipulating public sentiment,” George stated.
The lawmaker further emphasized that the Assembly had, in fact, written to the governor, requesting the budget’s submission within 48 hours to ensure timely passage. According to George, the delay is solely due to Fubara’s reluctance, adding, “His ego and personal interests are holding the state hostage.”
Did Lawmakers Block the Governor from Entering the Assembly Complex?
One of the most sensational claims making rounds is that the lawmakers locked the governor out of the Assembly complex. However, George dismissed this as another attempt to twist the narrative.
“The governor demolished the House of Assembly complex after burning down the Hallowed Chamber. We were forced to relocate to our residential quarters, where we converted a hall into our chamber. The governor drove to our gate, which is naturally secured because it’s our residence, and made a press statement before leaving within minutes,” he explained.
He further noted that even if the Assembly complex were intact, there are laid-down legislative procedures. “A governor doesn’t just walk into the chamber; he must formally notify the Speaker, who then seeks approval from members before granting access,” he added.
Why the Assembly Rejected Fubara’s Commissioners
Another contentious issue is the Assembly’s insistence on re-screening commissioners appointed by the governor. This, George argued, is a necessary legal step following the Supreme Court ruling.
“The Supreme Court invalidated the appointments. We advised the governor to send a fresh list, even if it contained the same individuals. Instead, he ignored our request and instructed the commissioners to sue us,” he disclosed.
RSIEC Chairman’s Summon and Judiciary Investigations
The Assembly recently summoned the Chairman of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) to explain preparations for the upcoming elections. However, the chairman refused to acknowledge the invitation, allegedly acting on the governor’s directives.
Similarly, lawmakers requested the Department of State Services (DSS) to investigate the Chief Judge of the state over alleged falsification of age. George clarified that since the Assembly was unable to conduct its own investigation due to executive interference, they opted to refer the matter to a federal agency.
Addressing the ‘Indefinite Adjournment’ Controversy
Critics have accused the House of indefinitely shutting down legislative activities. George refuted these claims, explaining that the adjournment was procedural.
“When we adjourn without specifying a date, it’s not ‘indefinite’ as people assume. If the Speaker directs us to reconvene tomorrow, we will. This is standard legislative practice, not a political maneuver,” he said.
Is Governor Fubara Facing Impeachment?
Speculations about the governor’s impeachment have gained traction, but George denied that any such motion had been introduced.
“Impeachment isn’t an arbitrary decision. A motion must be moved, an investigation conducted, and evidence presented. As of now, no such discussion has taken place,” he clarified, stressing that the lawmakers would rather focus on governance than political battles.
Financial Strangulation: Assembly’s Budgetary Woes
The financial standoff between the executive and legislature has left the Assembly struggling. George revealed that the governor has withheld one year and six months’ worth of allowances meant for lawmakers and legislative staff.
Read also: “Don’t Mistake Fubara’s Simplicity for Weakness” – Rivers SSG Danagogo Warns Critics
“These funds are not personal allowances; they cover staff salaries, diesel, and other operational costs. The governor’s refusal to release them is crippling legislative functions,” he lamented.
Conclusion: A State in Political Limbo
The power struggle in Rivers State is far from over, and the real casualties are the citizens whose governance is stalled by political infighting. Until both factions set aside personal interests and prioritize the state’s development, Rivers remains on the edge of uncertainty.