Pro-Wike lawmakers boycott meeting with Fubara amid political standoff

The 27 members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, known for their allegiance to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, on Monday, refused to attend a crucial meeting convened by Governor Siminalayi Fubara at the Government House.

The lawmakers, led by Speaker Rt. Hon. Martin Amaewhule, cited procedural irregularities in the Governor’s invitation, deepening the ongoing political crisis that has plagued Rivers State for the past 18 months following the fallout between Fubara and his predecessor, Wike.

The Governor’s invitation, sent through the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Tammy Danagogo, was titled:

“Meeting Between the Governor of Rivers State and the Honourable Members of the Rivers State House of Assembly.”

However, the lawmakers dismissed the invitation, criticizing the Governor’s approach.

Their rejection comes at a critical time, as the House had earlier issued a 72-hour ultimatum to the Chairman of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) and his Commissioners, demanding accountability for the 2024 local government elections and alleged expenditures without proper appropriation.

READ ALSO: RSIEC commissioners resign amid political uncertainty in Rivers State

Reacting to the invitation, Hon. Isaiah Opuende (Akuku-Toru Constituency 2) condemned what he described as an informal and disrespectful method of communication, alleging that the Governor’s letter was circulated on social media rather than through official legislative channels.

Expressing the Assembly’s stance, Opuende remarked: “It is time for us to determine our ‘dey.’ When your ‘dey’ started, our principal said the time for details of your ‘dey’ would come. Now, your ‘dey’ has come. Dey your dey, make we dey our dey. How can you send a letter, post it on social media, and expect us to honor it? We are not children. The Governor should write to the Assembly properly. That’s all. Thank you.”

The political crisis in Rivers State has been ongoing since Governor Fubara and his former ally, Wike, fell out over control of the state’s political structure.

This latest development underscores the power struggle between the Governor and the pro-Wike lawmakers, who have continuously challenged Fubara’s authority.

Observers say the Assembly’s defiance could further escalate tensions, potentially affecting governance in the state as both factions dig in.

The Governor’s next move remains uncertain, but political analysts suggest that resolving the crisis may require high-level interventions from the Presidency and the national leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

As Rivers State remains on edge, residents and stakeholders are closely watching how the Governor and the Assembly navigate this deepening impasse.