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  • Fubara proposes Wed to present budget

    Fubara proposes Wed to present budget

    Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara yesterday took a clear step forward in the implementation of the Supreme Court judgement.

    He forwarded a letter to the House of Assembly proposing March 19 for the re-presenation of  the 2025 Appropriation Bill.

    In the letter of March 13 personally signed by him and addressed to Speaker  Martins Amaewhule, the governor recalled his failed visit to the Assembly Wednesday to present the bill in line with the judgement.

    He said the presentation of the budget could not take place because he and his entourage were denied access the Legislative Quarters temporarily servicing as the Assembly complex despite the prior delivery of a soft copy of the notice to the Speaker after the Clerk failed to accept the hard copy.

    Read Also: Give it to the EFCC

    He further recalled that before the unfortunate incident, the Assembly had issued him a 48-hour ultimatum to present the bill, although he was yet to be served the certified true copy of the judgement.

    Fubara said: “We were simply complying with both the order of the Supreme Court and the request by the Rivers State House of Assembly when we came to present the 2025 Budget on the 12th March 2025.”

    “The Supreme has directed that all arms of government should exercise their powers and perform their duties within the ambit of the Constitution and ordinary laws of our country and this we must do to end the lingering stalemate and advance the progress of our state and the well-being of our people.

    “No matter the depth of our differences, we believe the interest of the state and our people should take priority over political conflicts.”

    He added: “Against this background, it is my pleasure to again notify you, Mr.Speaker, of my desire and intention to present the 2025 Budget to the Rivers State House of Assembly on Wednesday 19th March by 11am or any other date within March 2025 that you may consider convenient.

    “Thank you for the kind consideration of my request by the House and please accept, Mr. Speaker, the assurance of my highest regard.”

    Also, yesterday Fubara waved the olive branch, urging the aggrieved lawmakers and other stakeholders to create an atmosphere of peace crucial for the implementation of the Supreme Court judgement.

    The governor said he is open to “total peace,” stressing that there is no alternative to the apex court verdict.

    Fubara spoke during the inauguration of the Grammar School, Okirika, which was remodeled by his administration.

    Miffed by the worsening crisis, prominent Nigerians have appealed to the governor and the Assembly to sheath their swords.

    Reflecting on the imbroglio, the governor said the interest of the state is being threatened by the protracted conflicts.

    Fubara said: “It is important at this stage that we all embrace peace. The Supreme Court has made its judgment, we don’t have any option but to abide by it and by the grace of God we have started the process.

    “We are appealing to the other parties to consider the interest of Rivers State. The only thing that we owe this state is peace and development. I am open any day, any time for total peace in our State because if I have to govern well there is need for peace.”

    As the governor was making a case for peace, the lawmakers began the probe of the Chief Judge of the state, Justice Simeon Amadi over alleged age falsification.

    Alarmed at the growing tension in the state, Ijaw youths urged calm, saying that the impeachment of the governor would worsen an already tensed situation.

    There is excitement in the camp of anti-Fubara forces as Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Chief Nyesom Wike, who is visiting the state for the first time after the judgment, would be hosted to a reception by Ijaw leaders.

    Assembly probes chief judge

    At plenary, the Assembly resolved to write a letter to the Department of State Service (DSS) to investigate Amadi over the allegation of age falsification.

    The Leader of the House, Major Jack, raised the allegations, citing Order 23. He also tabled a document, claiming that Amadi falsified his age in the civil service.

    Lawmakers who debated on the matter argued that age falsification is a serious offence, adding that the proofs must be established before the any further step could be taken.

    They urged relevant security agencies to help the House to assist in the investigation of the allegation.

    Amaewhule said the Assembly is  empowered to conduct investigation by the provisions of Section 128 of the Constitution.

    He lamented that the governor had barred all heads of Ministries, Departments and Agencies from appearing before the Assembly to assist in investigation.

    Amaewhule said: “The House is calling on the Department of State Service to institute an investigation into the alleged age falsification by the Chief Judge, with a view to ascertaining the veracity or otherwise of the allegation, which will be forwarded to the National Judicial Council(NJC)”.

    The Speaker also asked all the committees,  particularly the Committee on Public Complaints and Petitions, to submit  their reports to the Assembly before proceeding on recess,

    Reception for Wike

    The people of Ijaw from the Kalabari Kingdom will hold Wike to a reception tomorrow in Abalama, Asari-Toru Local Government Area.

    It is being organised under the aegis of a group, ‘New Associates.’

    The Chairman of Publicity Committee, Dr. Enemi Alabo George, said in Port Harcourt, the state capital, that chiefs, leaders, women and youths were excited that Wike, a friend of the kingdom, would be visiting Kalabari.

    The highlights of the event include a thanksgiving service and a civic reception in honour of the former governor.

    George said::”All stakeholders in Kalabari are eagerly waiting to receive the FCT Minister and to show him gratitude. March 15 has been set aside to celebrate Chief Nyesom Wike for his love for the Kalabari Kingdom and its people.

    “He has done much for the kingdom and he deserves to be celebrated. We are calling on our chiefs, leaders, women, youths and stakeholders of the Kalabari kingdom to make that day special.”

    Youths call for peaceful resolution

    The Ijaw Youth Congress(IYC), Eastern zone, commended President Ahmed Tinubu for his intervention in the political crisis.

    Its Chairman, Ibiso Harry and Secretary John Amos, said in a statement that Tinubu’s the efforts are worthy of applause.

    The group appealed to President Tinubu to use his  to ensure peaceful  resolution of the conflicts.

    Reiterating it’s objection to impeachment,  the group said “anyone thinking or threatening to impeach Governor Siminialayi Fubara from office is anbenemy of the state and interested in creating tension/crisis in the State and such will be vehemently resisted.”

    The group called for dialogue and compromise in the interest of the state.

    ActionAid urges peace

    ActionAid Nigeria has expressed concern over the ongoing political tussle in Rivers State, urging the combatants to embrace peace

    The organisation said in a statement by the Country Director, Andrew Mamedu, that the crisis is affecting governance in the state.

    It said: “In recent days, we have reached out to various stakeholders, including civil servants and residents, to gauge public sentiment. The feedback received reflects growing apprehension over the uncertainty in the state and its impact on livelihoods and governance.

    “There are concerns over the sustainability of salary payments, as allocations remain unclear. The fear is that if the expected allocations do not materialise, the state’s workforce could face severe financial strain and heightened social tension.

     ‘‘The ongoing political turmoil in Rivers State is nothing short of a distraction from governance, which will deepen the suffering of the poor and marginalised. The battle for control, veiled in legislative drama, is a careless indulgence by the political elite and this will have dire consequences for ordinary citizens.”

    —

  • I am open for total peace in Rivers, Fubara tells opponents

    I am open for total peace in Rivers, Fubara tells opponents

    Rivers State Governor, Siminialayi Fubara, has appealed to his opponents to consider the interest of the state, saying he is open to total peace in the state.

    The governor spoke on Thursday during the inauguration of the Grammar School, Okirika, which was remodeled by his administration.

    Fubara said: “It is important at this stage that we all embrace peace. The Supreme Court has made its judgment, we don’t have any option but to abide by it and by the grace of God we have started the process. 

    “We are appealing to the other parties to consider the interest of Rivers State. The only thing that we owe this state is peace and development. I am open any day, any time for total peace in our State because if I have to govern well there is need for peace.”

    The governor said his administration started the Okirika Grammar School project when the planning Committee of the 20th Anniversary of the Okirika Diocese visited him and pleaded with him to give the entire school a facelift.

    He said he consider their request against the backdrop of the school’s importance and problem quality education in the society.

    He said: “I felt that the least as a government that we can do is to upgrade the standard of this school. It is not out of place because it is part of our agenda.

    “The key thing of this administration is healthcare, education, and agriculture. So, we immediately keyed into it and to the glory of God we are here today to unveil one of the things that we have done even in the face of the situation in our state.”

    The governor said he was happy that the church appreciated the efforts of his government and assured the church he would complete whatever was remaining of the project.

    Describing Education as a means of crime reduction, Fubara expressed confidence that when all the facilities were all the facilities in the schools were put into full use, they would help to reduce crime rate.

    The governor assured that he would continue to do the b at for the state insisting that the “interest of our State is the most important thing” to his government. 

    He said since the school was being managed by the church, the management would protect and maintain all facilities in it.

    He said: “The church should see the facilities as its own as a matter of fact the school belongs to the church, it is not government anymore. What the government is doing today is to complement their efforts”.

    Read Also: Group warns Fubara against contempt, hails Rivers lawmakers as ‘heroes of democracy’ after Supreme Court victory 

    Fubara further harped on the roles of old boys, who had become successful in life, to their almer mater and called on the old students of the school to take up the project of expanding the Grammar School.

    He, however, said his administration would take up the Bishop’s request on shore protection. 

    In his speech, the Commissioner for Education, Dr Ovy said the contract for the remodeling of Okrika Grammar School was awarded in April 2024 to various contractors and was duly funded to completion by the Governor Fubara.

    The Head of Okirika Local Government Administration, Mrs. Lasiki Hart, said the schools had produced distinguished individuals, who had made significant contributions to the development of not only Rivers, but the world at large.

    She said the governor’s visionary leadership to remodel Okrika Grammar School with imposing structures was a clear demonstration of his administration’s commitment to providing quality education.

    She said the people of Okrika were immensely grateful to the governor for giving the school a Midas touch.

  • Group warns Fubara against contempt, hails Rivers lawmakers as ‘heroes of democracy’ after Supreme Court victory 

    Group warns Fubara against contempt, hails Rivers lawmakers as ‘heroes of democracy’ after Supreme Court victory 

    The African Patriots Forum (APF) has praised lawmakers in the Rivers State House of Assembly, led by Speaker Martin Amaehwule, for what it described as their commitment to democracy and the rule of law.

    The group commended the legislators for seeking legal redress instead of resorting to violence in their dispute with Governor Siminalayi Fubara, following a Supreme Court ruling that affirmed their legitimacy.

    In a statement signed by its Global President, Dr Lanre Solomon, the APF described the verdict as “a significant milestone in their struggle to assert their authority and promote good governance in Rivers State”.

    “The lawmakers, led by Amaehwule, have demonstrated unwavering commitment to upholding the principles of democracy, justice, truth, and the people’s interests,” the statement reads.

    Read Also: Rivers logjam: No truce yet between Fubara, lawmakers

    “Their bravery in standing up for what is right, even in the face of adversity, shows their strong convictions and dedication to the well-being of their constituents.

    “By consistently choosing to side with democracy and justice, they have inspired hope and confidence in the people, showing that their voices are heard and valued.”

    The forum also accused Governor Fubara of disregarding the rule of law and urged him to respect the Supreme Court’s ruling.

    “The Governor must quit playing games and respect the court orders. The Supreme Court’s verdicts are clear and unequivocal, and it is imperative that he desists from any further actions that may be deemed contemptuous,” the group stated.

    “The people of Rivers State have suffered enough from the Governor’s antics, and it is time for him to put the interests of the state and its people above his own personal agenda.”

    The APF further warned that continued defiance of the ruling could lead to “chaos and anarchy” in the state.

    It also called on stakeholders in Rivers State to support the lawmakers in what it described as a crucial fight for democracy.

    “The lawmakers’ actions are a powerful reminder that democracy is not just about winning elections, but also about upholding the principles of justice, equality, and fairness,” the statement concluded.

  • Rivers logjam: No truce yet between Fubara, lawmakers

    Rivers logjam: No truce yet between Fubara, lawmakers

    • Brickbats over budget presentation

    There is no truce yet between Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the House of Assembly over the implementation of the Supreme Court judgment.

    On Tuesday, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu asked the governor to implement the Supreme Court judgment without delay.

    But yesterday, the governor and the Martin Amaewhule-led House of Assembly resumed hostilities over the presentation of the 2025 Appropriation Bill – a key element in the judgment.

    Fubara made his way to the Assembly quarters yesterday morning but met a brick wall.

    The quarters are where the lawmakers live and hold their plenary sessions since their complex was gutted by fire almost two years ago.

    Addressing reporters at the gate, the governor alleged that he was denied access despite his earlier communication with Speaker Amaewhule about his intention to present the budget.

    Read Also; A woman’s world?

    However, the lawmakers said nobody denied Fubara access. They described his allegation as spurious.

    Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Nyesom Wike weighed in to support the lawmakers.

    He said during a television interview that since the lawmakers live and work in the Assembly quarters, the governor ought to give them sufficient notice.

    According to him, such a visit should have been preceded by a letter to the lawmakers.

    I was denied access, says governor

    Fubara, who lamented that he and his team were denied access to the Assembly, said: “We believe that the interest of the people should come first and in view of the decision of the Supreme Court, we felt that there is every need for us to comply immediately to save the state, the workers and LGA workers and the economy of the state.

    “I made all frantic efforts to reach the Speaker, which I believe cannot deny that, and other members of the Assembly.

    “I went further to send WhatsApp information to him and others notifying them that I would be coming by 10am to present the budget so that there wouldn’t be any reason why Rivers State should be in any fix because of me as being alleged.

    “But it was unfortunate when we got there this morning, we were denied access and the next story I am hearing is that we didn’t communicate with them.

    “But I leave to God who sees in secret places. I did everything to make sure that the situation is sorted out today.”

    Fubara added: “But I still believe, they might be instructed later and if they are instructed, I am still ready to come any day to get this particular issue sorted out.

    “I have to bring up this because I am aware that there are certain reports making rounds the media that there was no communication and that I was not complying and that we are not making any effort.

    “So, I feel it is an opportunity here where everybody can hear from me and understand the situation that we are facing.”

    The governor said nothing would last forever, adding that the powers he wields as governor, he would not abuse it.

    Fubara stressed: “Like I said, nothing lasts forever. Even the greatest power, one day will end. What is most important is what we do with the power. I have chosen, even if I have the power, as they claim that I don’t know how to use power, I do not intend to abuse the power.

    “Because power when you abuse it, is what leads to this kind of situation we are facing.

    “I will not abuse it, but continue to work and operate with so much restraint, because I know that there is life after power.”

    Fubara’s letter

    The governor’s letter to the Assembly intimating the lawmakers about his visit to the Assembly was sighted by The Nation yesterday.

    The letter dated March 11, 2025, and personally signed by Fubara, was addressed to Amaewhule.

    It was titled: ‘Presentation of Rivers State 2015 Budget to the Rivers State House of Assembly.’

    In the letter, the governor recalled his statewide broadcast of March 2, where he expressed his unreserved commitment to implementing the recent Supreme Court judgment on the political disputes “as soon as the enrolled judgment orders were served on us”.

    The letter states: “It was in furtherance of this commitment that we initiated the consultative meeting with the Rivers State House of Assembly for the 10th of March 2025 to consider all the issues raised by the judgment and agree on the way forward in the best interest of our state.

    “However, this crucial meeting was never held, which was unfortunate.

    “Nevertheless, we have decided to move on to swiftly implement the terms of the judgment as promised having now been served with the certified true copy.

    “Consequently, we wish to notify Mr. Speaker of our desire and intention to present the 2025 Rivers State Appropriation Bill to the Rivers State House of Assembly on Wednesday 12th March 2015 by 10 am.”

    Fubara insincere, say lawmakers

    However, the lawmakers rejected the governor’s claims about being blocked from entering the Assembly, saying that they never received any official communication about his visit.

    Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Dr. Enemi Alabo George, described the claims as a mere comedy scripted to paint the Assembly in a bad light.

    George recalled that on March 3, the Assembly wrote to the governor requesting him to present the budget, following the judgment of the Supreme Court.

    He said: “We were the ones who immediately after that judgment appealed to the governor to bring his appropriation bill.

    “We acted immediately because we have the interest of the state at heart and didn’t want Rivers people to suffer any harm.

    “Despite withholding our entitlements for over a year and demolishing our chambers, we still wanted him to hasten up the presentation in the interest of the progress of Rivers.

    “We indicated our intentions in that letter and even gave him a timeframe because of the urgency of the matter.

    “To regularise his appointments, we also urged him during our subsequent sitting to submit the names of his nominees for the positions of commissioners and some board members for screening and confirmation. But the governor rebuffed our pleas.

    “We sent employees of the Assembly to deliver these resolutions to him, but as usual they turned them down at the gate and even brutalised them. We resorted to engaging the services of a courier company.

    “But he still did not heed our call forgetting that there are essential services like hospitals, schools and others to be funded.

    “Our intention was to finish everything about the budget on March 15 so that we could send necessary information and documents to relevant agencies of the government to allow the release of Rivers allocations at the end of March. But with what he is doing, we don’t know what he wants to achieve.

    “How can he turn around to claim that we blocked him from representing his budget? This is the height of insincerity.

    “We even need the budget to be passed because the governor has been owing us our entitlements for more than a year and without the budget we can’t get our entitlements.

    “The governor and his team simply and deliberately acted Wednesday’s drama with a singular motive to tarnish the image of the Assembly.

    “The governor is simply playing to the gallery to whip up unnecessary sentiments. But it has backfired because the truth has come out.”

    George insisted the governor’s letter, which he claimed was sent to the Speaker, never got to him.

    He said it was after Wednesday’s sitting that the lawmakers saw the letter on social media.

    He stressed: “But even the letter trending on social media was dated March 11. Does it mean that the governor purportedly sent a letter on Tuesday, God knows when, and immediately mobilised to the Assembly quarters on Wednesday morning claiming he came to present his budget?

    “That alone vitiates the claimed purpose. It is procedurally trite that after writing to the Assembly, the governor ought to wait for the letter to be acknowledged by the lawmakers, who will then invite him to appear before them and make his presentation. Governor Fubara ought to know this if he is sincere.”

    Wike: Fubara can be impeached

    Wike insisted that ‘heaven would not fall’ if Fubara is impeached by the lawmakers.

    He said: “If you have committed an offence to be impeached, what’s wrong? Is it a criminal offence? It’s provided in the constitution. Am I a member of the Assembly?

    “If you have committed an infraction of the constitution and the Assembly deems it fit to say, you should be impeached.

    “I have heard people say: ‘Oh, if they impeach him, there will be a breakdown of law and order.’ Rubbish! Nothing will happen.”

    Wike described as “useless” Fubara’s letter to the Assembly seeking an audience with the lawmakers.

    He said the governor was locked out of the assembly quarters for disregarding due process.

    He advised Fubara to present the budget and submit the list of commissioners, saying that peace can only be achieved when the right actions are taken.

    He criticised Fubara’s handling of governance, particularly in relation to the House of Assembly crisis.

    He said: “You have had a frosty relationship with an arm of government. If you are a good politician, would you go and write a letter? Is it by writing a letter signed by the SSG? What an insult! Is it how it is done? If you are a politician, you know what to do.

    “You want to play to the gallery, which is rubbish. All these letters are useless. You are not sincere, you are playing to the gallery.”

    Wike said Amaewhule and other lawmakers are not Fubara’s boys, stressing that they should be accorded some respect.

    He said instead of inviting the lawmakers through a public letter, Fubara should have called Amaewhule and his team via the phone and agreed on a date and time for a meeting.

    Wike accused Fubara of being responsible for the destruction of the Assembly complex, which had made lawmakers conduct sittings in their private residences.

    He added: “He (Fubara) brought the Assembly complex down. Assembly now sits in their residences. If you are coming, they have children; they have to prepare themselves.

    “You cannot just go and then open the gate saying: ‘I’m coming to present the budget.’ Nonsense, rubbish. Who is doing that? Playing to the gallery.”

    Nwike also dismissed plans to hold local government elections on August 27, saying that the process will not succeed.

    He criticised the Chairman of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC), Justice Adolphus Enebeli (retd), for hurriedly going to the court instead of responding to a summons from the Assembly.

    He said the situation mirrored a scenario where a federal institution, like the National Assembly, invites an official for questioning, only for that official to take legal action instead of appearing before lawmakers.

    The minister said the RSIEC chairman is more interested in personal gains than conducting a fair election.

    Wike reaffirmed his commitment to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), dismissing speculations that he may leave the opposition party.

    He said he would not back down from challenges, emphasising that his loyalty to the PDP remains unwavering despite political tensions.

    Wike said: “I don’t run away from a fight. I will not leave the PDP.”

    The minister accused Fubara’s associates of taking advantage of the situation to mislead him for their selfish interests.

    He criticised the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), labelling it the “worst organisation” because it attempted to obstruct President Bola Tinubu’s mediation efforts.

    The minister also accused Fubara of disrespecting him by removing a chief in his family and replacing him with another.

    He said: “Look at me, former governor, Minister of FCT. Governor Fubara has the temerity, the audacity, because he has money from the FAAC, because he has money from the IGR, to enter my family to remove a chief and appoint another person.”

    ‘Fubara, Wike should accommodate one another’

    A Strategic Management and Human Capital Development expert, Prof. Okey Ikechukwu, urged Fubara and Wike to sheathe their swords.

    Ikechukwu, who spoke on television, urged the duo to accommodate one another in resolving the crisis plaguing the oil-rich state.

    “Both parties should not strive to win; both parties should find accommodation for each other. They should find out what deal others can live with provided it serves the interests of the state,” he said.

    “They should also look at so many possibilities. If any of the two parties wins comprehensively, there will be too much fire under the sea they want to sit.

    “If you bury all the interest of Wike completely, there are hostile, dependent forces that will not sleep and will not allow you to sleep.

    “If you bury all the interest of Fubara in this matter, you will have no state to govern.”

  • BREAKING: Fubara not sincere, playing to gallery, says Rivers Assembly

    BREAKING: Fubara not sincere, playing to gallery, says Rivers Assembly

    The Rivers Assembly has disagreed with claims by Governor Siminalayi Fubara that he was blocked from entering the House to re-present his 2025 Appropriation Bill.

    The House said it never received any official communication from the Governor indicating interest to bring his appropriation bill to the floor of the House.

    The spokesperson of the House and Chairman, House Committee on Information, Dr. Enemi Alabo George, described the claims of the Governor as a mere comedy skit scripted to paint the House in bad light.

    George recalled that on March 3, the House of Assembly wrote to the Governor requesting him to bring his 2025 appropriation bill to the lawmakers following the judgement of the Supreme Court.

    He said: “We were the ones, who immediately after that judgement appealed to the governor to bring his appropriation bill. We acted immediately because we have the interest of the state at heart and didn’t want Rivers people to suffer any harm. 

    “Despite withholding our entitlements for over a year and demolishing our chambers, we still wanted him to hasten up the presentation in the interest of the progress of Rivers.

    “We indicated our intentions in that letter and even gave him a timeframe because of the urgency of the matter. To regularise his appointments, we also urged him during our subsequent sitting  to submit the names of his nominees for the positions of commissioners and some boards’ membership for screening and confirmation.

    Read Also; I was denied access to Rivers Assembly, says Fubara 

    “But the Governor rebuffed our pleas. We sent employees of the Assembly to deliver these resolutions to him but as usual they turned them down at the gate and even brutalized them. We resorted to engaging the services of a courier company. 

    “But he still did not heed our call forgetting that there are essential services like hospitals, schools and others to be funded. Our intention was to finish everything about the budget on March 15th so that we could send necessary information and documents to relevant agencies of the government to allow the release of Rivers allocations at the end of March. But with what he is doing, we dont know what he wants to achieve.

    “How can he turn around to claim that we blocked him from re-presenting his budget? This is the height of insincerity. We even need the budget to be passed because the governor has been owing us our entitlements for more than a year and without the budget we can’t get our entitlements.

    “The Governor and his team simply and deliberately acted Wednesday’s drama with a singular motive to tarnish the image of the Assembly. The governor is simply playing to the gallery to whip up unnecessary sentiments. But it has backfired because the truth has come out”.

    Besides, George insisted that the letter the Governor claimed he sent to the Speaker never got to him, adding that it was after the Wednesday’s sitting that the lawmakers saw the letter flying on social media.

    He said: “But even the letter trending on social media was dated March 11. Does it mean that the governor purportedly sent a letter on Tuesday God knows when, and immediately mobilised to the assembly quarters on Wednesday morning claiming he came to present his budget?

    “That alone vitiates the claimed purpose. It is procedurally trite that after writing to the Assembly, the governor ought to wait for the letter to be acknowledged by the lawmakers, who will then invite him to appear before them and make his presentation. Governor Fubara ought to know this if he is sincere.

    “But all we know is that this Assembly will continue to uphold the rule of law and will remain committed to promoting the interest of Rivers State. We urge him to do the needful so that Rivers people can breathe. He is toying with the lives and livelihood of Rivers people.”

  • I was denied access to Rivers Assembly, says Fubara 

    I was denied access to Rivers Assembly, says Fubara 

    The Rivers state governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has lamented that he and his team were denied access to the state House of Assembly on Wednesday when they went there to re-present the 2025 Appropriation Bill.

    Fubara, who spoke during the inauguration of the Zonal Hospital Bori, said he made many failed frantic efforts to reach the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Martins Amaewhule and other lawmakers including sending a whassap message to the speaker.

    The governor insisted that he did everything to sort out all the matters on Wednesday without getting positive response from the Assembly.

    Addressing crowd of persons, who attended the inauguration, he said: “We are here this afternoon unlike our normal programme that we usually hold in the morning. 

    “We believe that the interest of the people should come first and in view of that, the decision of the Supreme Court, we felt that there is every need for us to comply immediately to save the State, the workers and LGA workers and the economy of the State. 

    “I made all frantic effort to reach the Speaker which I believe cannot deny that and other members of the Assembly. I went further to send Whatsapp information to him and others notifying them that I will be coming by 10:00am to present the budget, so that there won’t be any reason why Rivers State should be in any fix because of me as being alleged. 

    “But it was unfortunate when we got there this morning we were denied access and the next story I am hearing is that we didn’t communicate with them. But I leave to God who sees in secret places. I did everything to make sure that the situation is sorted out today. 

    “But I still believe, they might be instructed later and if they are instructed I am still ready to come any day to get this particular issue sorted out. I have to bring up this because I am aware that there are certain reports making round the media that there was no communication and that I was not complying and that we are not making any effort. So, I feel it is an opportunity here where everybody can hear from me and understand the situation that we are facing.”

    Read Also: Heaven will not fall if Fubara is impeached – Wike 

    The governor said nothing would last forever adding they despite understanding the powers he possessed as a governor, he would not abuse it.

    “Like I said nothing last forever. Even the greatest power, one day will end. What is most important is what we do with power. I have chosen, even if I have the power, as they claim that I don’t know how to use power, I do not intend to abuse the power.

    “Because power when you abuse it, is what leads to this kind of situation we are facing. I will not abuse it, but continue to work and operate with so much restraint, because I know that there is life after power”, he said.

    Fubara said the inauguration was part of the fulfilment of his Rivers first agenda and the desire of his administration to prioritize healthcare, education, agriculture and security

    He said the facility was initiated by the former governor Rotimi Amaechi’s administration, but was abandoned after the immediate past government did some work on it.

    He said when he came on board, he desired that all the zonal hospitals in Bori, Etche, Ahoada, Omodu and Degema were removed and brought back to life.

    The governor said the essence of the facility was to reduce the pressure on the Teaching Hospital and lamented the conditions of the teaching hospital

    He said: “If you go to the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital you will see the number of our people struggling to get quality services. So, we felt that if the Zonal Hospitals are properly fixed to standard, there won’t be need of this issue of scrambling to get medical attention in our Teaching Hospital. 

    “For that reason we didn’t end by just fixing it the way we met it, we believe that it will be proper for this facility to be expanded and everything that is needed in a standard health facility is provided. I can tell you to the glory of God today those things are all in this Hospital.”

    The governor appealed to the Commissioner and the Health Management Board to maintain the facility and open it immediately to provided the required services adding that all equipment was in place.

    The governor urged the youths to remain strong amidst the ongoing crisis saying God would surely grant him victory.

    Addressing a young lady, who presented a piece of art to him, the governor said he was touched when she said the nails used in designing the piece represented the pains and challenges he had overcome.

    “I know that the pains are for purposes. It gives me so much encouragement this afternoon and reason to continue to stand strong. I assure you I won’t allow that art work to waste. I will not let your energy be a waste. I will continue to be strong for all of you”, he said. 

  • Heaven will not fall if Fubara is impeached – Wike 

    Heaven will not fall if Fubara is impeached – Wike 

    The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, stated on Wednesday that heaven will not fall if the House of Assembly, led by Martins Amaewhule, impeaches Governor Siminalayi Fubara. 

    Wike made this remark during a live broadcast monitored by our correspondent in Abuja. 

    He remarked: “If you have committed an offence warranting impeachment, what’s the issue? Is it a criminal offence? It’s provided for in the constitution. Am I a member of the Assembly? 

    “If you have breached the constitution and the Assembly finds it appropriate to declare your impeachment. 

    “I have heard people say: ‘Oh, if they impeach him, there will be a breakdown of law and order.’ Nonsense! Nothing will happen.” 

    On Friday, February 28, 2025, the Supreme Court issued a series of decisions regarding the protracted political situation in the oil-rich south- south state. 

    In the judgment delivered by Justice Emmanuel Akomaye, the five-member panel of the court unanimously dismissed the cross-appeal filed by Fubara challenging the legitimacy of the House of Assembly presided over by Martins Amaewhule as Speaker. 

    In dismissing Fubara’s appeal, the court ordered Amaewhule to resume sittings immediately with other elected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly. 

    Read Also: MoU with Italian govt visit aligns with Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, says Wike

    The apex court prohibited the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the Accountant General of the Federation, and other agencies from releasing funds to the Government of Rivers State until it rectifies what the court described as blatant disobedience to court orders. 

    Additionally, the apex court declared the local government election conducted in the state on October 5, 2024, invalid. 

    Fubara subsequently stated he would fully implement the apex court’s judgements and directed the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) to devise modalities for a fresh election. 

    The electoral commission scheduled August 9, 2025, to conduct a new local government poll in the state. 

    The Assembly later issued an arrest warrant for RSIEC Chief Justice Adolphus Enebeli (RTD) for failing to appear before the House. 

    The Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Tammy Danagogo, in a letter dated March 7, 2025, requested a meeting with the lawmakers for March 10, 2025, to discuss the re-presentation of the 2025 budget and a peace talk, but the Assembly instructed the governor to channel his invitation properly. 

    Details shortly…

  • Wike: Fubara’s letter to Rivers Assembly on Supreme Court verdict ‘useless’

    Wike: Fubara’s letter to Rivers Assembly on Supreme Court verdict ‘useless’

    Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, on Wednesday dismissed as “useless” the letter sent by Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, to the state House of Assembly requesting an audience with lawmakers.

    The letter was reportedly linked to discussions on implementing the Supreme Court’s verdict on the state’s political affairs.

    Wike disclosed this during a live broadcast with journalists in Abuja.

    He said: “You have had a frosty relationship with an arm of government. If you are a good politician, will you go and write a letter? Is it by writing a letter signed by the SSG? What an insult! Is it how it is done? If you are a politician you know what to do.

    “You want to play to the gallery which is rubbish. All these letters are useless, you are not sincere, you are playing to the gallery,” he said.

    Wike said Speaker Martins Amaewhule and other lawmakers in the Rivers Assembly are not Fubara’s boys and should be accorded some respect.

    Wike said instead of inviting members of the House through a public letter, Fubara should have called Amaewhule and his team via the phone and agreed on a date and time for a meeting.

    On Friday, February 28, 2025, the Supreme Court made final decisions on the political situation in the oil-rich South-South state.

    The judgment delivered by Justice Emmanuel Akomaye, the five-man panel of the court unanimously dismissed the cross-appeal filed by Fubara challenging the validity of the House of Assembly presided over by Martins Amaewhule as the Speaker.

    In dismissing Fubara’s appeal, the court ordered Martin Amaewhule to resume sitting immediately with other elected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly.

    The apex court also barred the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the Accountant General of the Federation, and other agencies from releasing funds to the Government of Rivers State until it purges itself of what the court described as flagrant disobedience to court orders.

    Read Also: Wike cautions Abuja residents against sabotaging govt efforts

    Also, the apex court declared the local government election conducted in the state on October 5, 2024, as invalid.

    Fubara subsequently said he would fully implement the judgments of the apex court and directed the Rivers State Independent Electoral Electoral Commission (RSIEC) to come up with modalities for the fresh election.

    The electoral commission fixed August 9, 2025, to conduct a fresh local government poll in the state.

    The Secretary to the State Government, Tammy Danagogo, in a letter dated March 7, 2025, sought a meeting with the lawmakers for March 10, 2025 to discuss the re-presentation of the 2025 budget and a peace talk.

    However, the Assembly had asked the governor to channel his invitation properly.

  • BREAKING: Fubara, aides stranded at Rivers Assembly over budget re-presentation 

    BREAKING: Fubara, aides stranded at Rivers Assembly over budget re-presentation 

    Rivers Governor Siminialayi Fubara and his entourage could not gain access to the Assembly Quarters of the House of Assembly on Wednesday.

    The Governor and some members of his executive council, arrived the quarters in the morning of Wednesday but met the gate locked.

    Fubara, who wore a white outfit with a red cap, said he was at the Assembly Quarters to re-present the 2026 Appropriation Bill in line with the Supreme Court’s judgement.

    Two key officials, who accompanied the Governor to the quarter, where the House of Assembly is located along Aba Road, were the Chief of Staff, Edison Ehie and the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Tammy Danagogo.

    The governor could be heard saying: “Is the gate locked” before speaking on the reason for his visit. 

    He complained that he was at the House of Assembly quarters to re-present the 2025 Appropriation Bill in line with the Supreme Court’s judgement, but met the gate to the Assembly locked.

    Read Also: Tinubu to Fubara: comply fully with S’Court verdict

    The Governor said he had made a lot of efforts to reach Rivers Speaker and other lawmakers to no avail.

    Fubara said he also sent a letter to the Speaker for an invitation to re+present the budget but has got no reply, adding that he was only acting for the interest of the state.

    The Governor said: “I came here this morning with few of my EXCO members to comply with the Supreme Court judgment. Before my arrival I have made several attempts by phone call to reach the Speaker and other members. 

    “I also did a letter personally which was transmitted to the Hon. Speaker for this particular invitation. But it is unfortunate that at the gate, the place is completely sealed, and there is no sign that anything is going to happen today.

    “The reason why we are doing this, like I have always said is the interest of our people which is the most important thing. Well I don’t think there is anything to worry about, maybe they are working on the letter, and I expect to hear from them may be after this hour”.

  • Tinubu to Fubara: comply fully with S’Court verdict

    Tinubu to Fubara: comply fully with S’Court verdict

    • Please, go back home and help him implement those recommendations, President urges PANDEF

    Governor Siminalayi Fubara must comply fully and immediately with the judgment of the Supreme Court to keep the peace in Rivers State, the President declared yesterday.

    According to him, the nation is governed by the rule of law without which there will be no order or governance.

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu spoke during a meeting with the delegation of the Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) at Aso Villa.

    Speaking specifically on the request by the group for intervention in the political logjam, the President put the issue directly on the lap of Fubara.

    He said: “Please go back home and help him implement those recommendations within the shortest possible time. I put the ball back in your court. Help him because, privately and openly, I intervened and counselled the governor.

    “Only yesterday (Monday), I told him again to pursue the path of peace and stoop to conquer.

    “This is a nation governed by the rule of law. I should not be here as the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria if there was no rule of law. I have total confidence in our judiciary.

    “Human beings can make errors, but when the Supreme Court has spoken, that’s it.”

    Before the apex court judgment, President Tinubu intervened and got the parties in the crisis to reach an agreement. But it was observed in the breach.  

    Fubara and his supporters claimed that the agreement was skewed against them.

    Since the March 7 apex court judgment, apart from asking council chairmen whose election was declared invalid to vacate office, Fubara has repeatedly promised to comply.

    The President further said: “We reached an agreement, a written agreement, and both parties signed. Some leaders thought the governor was wrong to have signed it and didn’t implement it. Where did we find ourselves today?

    “I’ve given the situation enough time, enough thinking, enough consideration. We cannot falter, we will not.

    “The people of Rivers State must not suffer for the democracy that we all pulled together. They will not, they must be protected. I assure you, we’ll do better.”

    Yesterday in Port Harcourt, the governor again promised to implement the judgment.

    Read Also: Supreme Court fixes June 6 for judgment in 20-year old dispute over Gwandu Emirate stool

    The House of Assembly led by Martins Amaewhule remained active as it had been since the judgment.

    It met with the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) top officials.

    The PANDEF big delegation was led by the body’s joint Board of Trustees (BoT) co-chairmen Amanyanabo of Twon-Brass, King Alfred Diete-Spiff, and former Akwa Ibom State Governor Obong Victor Attah.

    Also in the delegation was PANDEF chairman Ambassador Godknows Igali.

    The President assured the PANDEF leaders of the completion of ongoing projects of his Administration in the Southsouth region.

    He said: “Send somebody to go look at what’s going on with the coastal road (Lagos/Calabar). That’s a huge economy and the opportunities associated with it.

    “Yes, we’re working with internationally reputable companies to make Uyo Port, Calabar Port, and other Southsouth ports a reality.

    “We’re resetting the economy, and it’s tilted far better now. There’s funding for our children in universities, our medical colleges are well-equipped.

    “Yes, there’s an infrastructure deficit in some areas, but we will fix it. We’re setting our priorities right.

    “With our youthful population, we can achieve the greatest things in Africa. Let us not look at the past wastes, let us learn lessons from it and move forward with this country.

    “Whatever remains in these memos that you’ve submitted, I will take a look at them. We’ll meet more regularly.

    “Go back home and take charge of peace, and if you need me, let me know.”

    The President urged the leaders to support young leaders making strides in community development, citing the work of Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, Managing Director of NDDC.

    “Ogbuku, the MD of NDDC, is doing a very good job. Encourage him to achieve more,” President Tinubu said.

    King Alfred Papapreye Diete-Spiff thanked the President for his commitment to Southsouth well-being and appointments given to Niger Delta indigenes.

    “Your government has taken the bull by the horns, and we are sure you will succeed. We are here to give you our assurance and support. God bless Nigeria and your government,” he said.

    Obong Attah called for further intervention in the Rivers crises.

    Attah, who also chairs the reconciliation committee set up by PANDEF in Rivers, said the political crisis threatens national stability and deserves more attention.

    “Instability there has far-reaching consequences on the peace and stability of the nation,” he added.

    He praised the President’s reforms, including power devolution and regional development recognition, and urged focus on infrastructure, seaports, environmental sustainability, and fiscal federalism.

    On the delegation were politicians, top government officials, traditional rulers, and senior figures from the zone.

    These include many known supporters of Fubara. Among them are: Former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP ) chairman Uche Secondus, former Rivers State Deputy Governor Tele Ikuru; and Prof. Mike Ozakhome (SAN).

    Other are: former Cross River State governor, Mr Liyel Imoke; Senator Seriake Dickson; former NDDC Managing Director Timi Alaibe; Jaja of Opobo, Prof. Dandeson Jaja; Senator Ita Enang; Senator Bassey Henshaw; Mrs Ibim Semenitari; Senator Andrew Uchendu; National Coordinator of Host Communities of Nigeria, HOSTCOM, Okareme Maikpobi; Niger Delta activist, Ms Ann-Kio Briggs; spokesman of PANDEF, Chief Obiwevbi Ominimini.

    Also in attendance were the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN) and Minister of State for Petroleum (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri.

    We will implement judgment, says Fubara

    Fubara said his administration would implement the Supreme Court judgment to the fullest, adding that the peace and collective interest of the state were bigger than individual interest.

    He also lamented the huge cost of the conflicts to the Executive and Legislative arms, saying they are enormous.

    The governor, who spoke during the inauguration of the New Judges Quarters built by his administration in the Old GRA, Port Harcourt, the state capital, said no price would be too much to pay for peace.

    House of Assembly Speaker Martins Amaewhule, who also spoke on the imperative of peace, rejected the regression to ethnic politics.

    The Speaker, who hosted the NDDC, led by the Director of Finance and Administration, Chief Boma Iyaye, assured that the lawmakers would work for the peace, unity and progress of the state.

    Fubara acknowledged that the past 16 months had been rough for his government.

    He, however,  said that after leaving office, his work would speak for him.

    The governor said since the crisis started, a lot of money and resources that should have been channelled to the development of the state had been wasted by both sides.

    He said: “It has not been easy these past 16 months, but what is important is that the interest of our state must be above our personal interest.

    “I want to say it here very clearly that the Supreme Court has given a judgment. My administration will implement the judgment to its fullest. The reason is clear. It is not about me. It is about the good of this state.

    “We can imagine the kind of waste that has taken place on both sides. This is money that if we had used in the affairs of this state, there would have been a lot of things to show. Thank God for where we are today.

    “I can assure you that any day, any time, I have not gone back on my statement that nothing is too big to pay for peace in this state. Because at the end of the day, it is about our people.

    “It is not about me, because I will leave, but the good that I have done will speak for my administration.”

    The governor described the event as a special one, noting the presence of a former President of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) O.C.J Okocha (SAN), who he also described as an unusual person.

    Okocha is among the elders backing the 27 lawmakers.

    Fubara said: “Today is a special day because we have a very unusual person in our midst and I want to honestly appreciate his presence, Chief O.C.J Okocha. We are happy that you are here with us.”

    The governor said the project was further proof that his administration took the welfare of judges  seriously.

    He said: “When we came on board, this particular project was one of the projects that we inherited and after the reports that we received from the ministry and some concerns that were made from the judiciary, we felt it didn’t matter who started the project and who the contractor is. But what is important is to complete this project because it is all about Rivers.”

    Fubara urged the Chief Judge, Justice Chibuzor Amadi, to work with the government on the issue of maintenance of the new quarters to keep the facilities in good shape.

    The Chief Judge described the inauguration as another milestone and a great accomplishment for Rivers judiciary.

    He recalled that he laid the foundation for the project as part of activities marking the end of the administration of former Governor Nyesom Wike and with Fubara in attendance.

    He said: “We are pleased with this landmark achievement, which represents the continuation of the policy of providing befitting residential accommodations for the judges of Rivers State on the owner-occupier basis or monetary grant in lieu thereof.

    “This is backed by Rivers State Housing Scheme for Judicial Officers Law Number 10 of 2021.

    “By the extant National Judicial Council guidelines for appointment of judges in Nigeria, availability of official residential accommodation and official vehicles are essential for the grant of approval by the NJC to any state for appointment of new judges.”

    He said judicial officers required residential accommodation in view of the sensitive and important duties of their office.

    Justice Amadi thanked Fubara for completing the legacy project for the enhancement of the duties of judges of Rivers State.

    He said the policy of providing official accommodation for judges had reduced greatly the pressure on judicial officers, who hitherto struggled to build retirement homes while in service with limited resources.

    No room for ethnic division, says Amaewhule

    Amaewhule condemned the plot to cause ethnic division in the state, saying that the House of Assembly would not allow it.

    He said Rivers had gone beyond ethnic narratives, assuring that the lawmakers would continue to push for the unity, peace and progress of the state.

    Amaewhule said the Supreme Court judgment did not come as a surprise because the House had conducted its affairs within the ambit of the Constitution and the law.

    He said: “What this country and our state truly deserves is the adherence to the rule of law and the dividends of democracy to our people through proper leadership. That is what we stand for. We were expecting the judgment because we know we have been conscious of our constitution.”