A new political crisis appears to be brewing in Rivers State, as Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Martins Amaewhule, accuses Governor Siminalayi Fubara of reigniting tensions by making misleading statements regarding his interactions with lawmakers. Amaewhule claims that Fubara’s assertion of not being able to meet with the House members is false.
In a statement, Amaewhule emphasized, “The governor lied when he said he hasn’t been able to meet with members of the Rivers State House of Assembly.” He referenced a meeting called shortly after the State of Emergency was called off, attended by himself, the governor, and officials from the Assembly, disputing Fubara’s public claims.
The Speaker contends that the governor’s comments were not only insincere but also stem from a desire to create an impression of a breakdown in communications, which could lead to further political strife. He urged the people of Rivers State to disregard the governor’s comments and remain cautious as the political climate continues to escalate.
Governor Fubara Responds
In a separate development, Governor Fubara addressed concerns about a potential rift with federal or state lawmakers during the commissioning of the extended and dualized 28.4-kilometre Ahoada–Omoku Road. He dismissed allegations of strained relations as unfounded and outlined plans for a forthcoming meeting with the lawmakers.
After recently defecting from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), Fubara called for continued support for President Bola Tinubu, stating that his political shift was aimed at fostering peace and promoting steady progress in the state.
He stressed, “Anyone alleging that I declined to meet with lawmakers is not telling the truth,” reinforcing his commitment to collaboration and governance.
Fubara’s administration has faced complications since taking office, following a turbulent transition from former Governor Nyesom Wike. Tensions between the two have often revolved around the control of political structures in Rivers State. In March of this year, President Tinubu imposed a state of emergency in the state, citing the escalation of political tensions, which included suspensions of the governor and the House of Assembly.
Reconciliation efforts ensued throughout the year, culminating in a meeting between Fubara, Wike, Amaewhule, and President Tinubu. In September, emergency rule was lifted, which the President attributed to a renewed spirit of collaboration among stakeholders in the state.
