Rivers Assembly Challenges Fubara’s Claims Amid Ongoing Political Crisis

The political rift between Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the State House of Assembly has deepened following recent Supreme Court rulings. The reinstated lawmakers, led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, have refuted several claims made by the governor, accusing him of insincerity.

Budget Controversy
Assembly spokesperson Hon. Enemi George stated that the governor’s claim of being blocked from presenting the 2025 budget was false. According to George, the Assembly had invited Fubara to present the budget within 48 hours after the Supreme Court’s ruling but received no response. He further alleged that the governor’s supposed letter requesting a presentation date was never officially received by the Assembly and only surfaced on social media.

Governor’s Alleged Exclusion from the Assembly Complex
George dismissed reports that lawmakers locked the governor out of the Assembly complex, explaining that Fubara had demolished the complex and that legislative sessions were now held at their quarters. He claimed that the governor arrived at the quarters unannounced and staged a brief press conference outside the locked gate, using public sentiment to frame lawmakers as obstructionists.

Commissioners’ Legitimacy and Legislative Interference
The lawmakers insisted that Fubara’s appointed commissioners were invalidated by the Supreme Court and urged him to submit a new list for approval. Instead, the governor allegedly instructed his commissioners to take legal action against the Assembly and barred state agencies from receiving communication from lawmakers.

RSIEC and Chief Judge Investigations
The Assembly accused the governor of interfering with legislative oversight, claiming that the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) chairman refused to acknowledge their summons. Regarding the Chief Judge’s alleged age falsification, lawmakers said they had referred the matter to federal authorities, as they were unable to conduct an independent investigation.

Indefinite Adjournment and Impeachment Speculations
George clarified that the Assembly’s adjournment was due to logistical reasons and not a political move. He also denied any ongoing impeachment plans against Fubara, stating that such a decision would require formal discussions and an investigative process.

Financial Challenges
The lawmakers accused the governor of withholding their allowances for over a year, affecting not only members but also Assembly staff and essential operational expenses.

Amidst the escalating tensions, the lawmakers urged all parties to prioritize governance over political rivalries, warning that the crisis was stalling the state’s progress.