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  • You can’t impeach Fubara, PDP tell Rivers lawmakers

    You can’t impeach Fubara, PDP tell Rivers lawmakers

    The Rivers chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has told the 27 lawmakers of the Assembly threatening to impeach Governor Siminilayi Fubara that they lack the legitimacy to execute their threat.

    At the weekend, the lawmakers said they would not hesitate to commence a fresh impeachment proceeding against the governor if he continued to allegedly violate the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended and the laws of the state.

    The lawmakers, whose position statement was read by their Speaker, Martins Amaewhule, said: “They must not forget that the Rivers State House of Assembly has the mandate of the people and that we swore an oath of allegiance to the Constitution to do the needful including the Impeachment of the Governor as a last resort. So, if it becomes a last resort, in accordance with the law, we will not hesitate to do so because no individual is bigger than Rivers State, including the Governor.

    “We assure the good people of Rivers State that we remain undeterred in our service to our father land and no number of threats including those of violence against us just like they attacked the Speaker’s residence will make us abandon our Constitutional mandate to make laws for the good governance of our dear State. 

    “Efforts to utilize misguided individuals and attack dogs to spew lies against the House or misinform the populace with the intention of bringing the House to disrepute has only succeeded in strengthening our resolve to represent our people even better by focusing on our job and ignoring their distractions”.

    But PDP in a statement signed by its Publicity Secretary, Sydney Tambari Gbara, asked the lawmakers to stop disturbing the peace of the state and allow the court to determine their legitimacy.

    Gbara urged the lawmakers to address their legitimacy question in the light of Section 109 of the Constitution of Nigeria 1999 as amended following their defections from the PDP to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    He said they should bury their heads in shame lamenting that while other state Houses of Assembly were  making laws for the good governance of their respective states, they were  busy making frantic efforts to destroy the state and frustrate orders. 

    He said: “You have several cases querying your legality in courts, why are you running away from them? You are here constituting public nuisance, engaging in  illegal assembly, taking illegal decisions and making illegal laws, knowing full well that you no longer represent your constituents. 

    “If you want to know what Rivers people think about you go to streets and ask questions. You are an illegal assembly and your laws are inconsequential to Rivers people”.

    Read Also: Fubara preaches peace, unity at Easter

    Gbara said that the founding fathers of the state would be crying that a group of young people had decided to be used as agents of destabilisation of their state, the government and it’s people.

    He warned that posterity would not be kind to them for choosing the path of destruction rather than peace and reconciliation. 

    Gbara also responded to claims of non implementation of the eight Point Peace Accord by Tony Okocha.

    He said: “Although we are not holding brief for the state government, as a party, let me  tell Tony Okocha that Governor Siminialayi Fubara has in his desire to further deepen peace in the state implemented the Peace Accord and in accordance with our laws.

    “So, your attempt to try to stampede Governor Fubara into taking unconstitutional actions is like blowing hot air”.

  • Fubara preaches peace, unity at Easter

    Fubara preaches peace, unity at Easter

    Rivers state governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has urged the Christian faithful to promote peace, unity and love during Easter.

    Fubara in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi assured that his administration would continue to chart the course of providing the required leadership.

    The governor said: “At the heart of Easter is the triumph of light over darkness. It is a season that reminds us that the Almighty God can turn an unpleasant situation around for the good of His people.

    “I do recognise that Easter is about renewed hope and a glorious future. So, I urge all Rivers people to continue to be confident and believe strongly in our leadership for better seasons ahead.”

    Read Also: Third Mainland Bridge reopens Thursday

    Fubara emphasised that all the measures taken so far by his administration were in the best interest of the state and for the general good of the people.

    He said: “As a government, our conscience is clear. We mean well for Rivers people. We came prepared for seamless, people-oriented service to the State. And we intend no harm whatsoever to anybody in the course of providing good governance.

    “Let me thank you for your support and cooperation, even as we continue to work collectively to keep our dear Rivers State safe and secure for every resident and visitor.

    “So, as you celebrate Easter, remember the reason for the season. Also remember to continue to put our government in your prayers at this time and always, so that collectively, we can achieve the goals we have set for ourselves in efforts to deliver on our mandate.”

  • Rivers lawmakers threaten to resume Fubara impeachment proceedings

    Rivers lawmakers threaten to resume Fubara impeachment proceedings

    • Accuse governor of constitutional breaches •Lambast Secondus, Sekibo, others for attacking Wike, working against Tinubu
    • Legislative Assembly leader, SDP candidate back gov

    Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara is facing a fresh impeachment threat from the majority members of the State House of Assembly who claimed yesterday that the governor has not relented in breaching critical provisions of the constitution.

    The 27 lawmakers are supporters of Fubara’s immediate predecessor, Nyesom Wike, and defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the heat of the first round of hostilities between the governor and Wike, who is now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

    The legislators, in a communique issued in Port Harcourt yesterday, accused Fubara of jettisoning the terms of the agreement he signed with Wike last December following the peace talks brokered by President Bola Tinubu.

    This, they said, includes the non re-presentation of the state budget to the assembly for deliberation.

    The lawmakers also took a dig at a former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Uche Secondus, Dr. Abiye Sekibo and others who, under the auspices of the Former Rivers State PDP Presidential Campaign Council, recently attacked Wike.

    The lawmakers said it was laughable that the Secondus group, who worked against the victory of President Tinubu and Fubara in the last elections, could now come out to declare support for the two men and tried to despise and lie against Wike who made the victories possible.

     The lawmakers said: “These new arrivals have just landed like hawks. They now want to grab what they spat on but need to be careful of their ranting and utterances against the institution of the legislature and the FCT Minister as they can derail the existing peace in the state.

    “The FCT Minister is doing fabulously well in Abuja and should be commended. Rather than looking for advice for Mr. President who we believe knows them very well, should they not be calling on the Governor to learn to abide by the laws of Rivers State and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria?

    “Should these new self-acclaimed advisers also not be advising the Governor to do the needful so that there can be a smooth transition from the current democratically elected Councils in the State to the next democratically elected Councils and avoid the challenges of attempting the opposite?

    “What about advising the Governor to heed to the Peace Agreement he begged for, willingly signed, and has chosen not to abide by some of the terms?

    “It is worthy of note that the notice of impeachment of the Governor was quickly withdrawn by members of the House in fulfillment of the terms of the agreement and out of immense respect for the person and office of the President of the Federal Republic and believing that there would be a u-turn in terms of unlawful actions of the Governor.

    “The reverse is now the case as we see from the day to day activities of the State Governor being conducted outside the laws of Rivers State and the Constitution.

    “To this day, Rivers State remains the only state without an Appropriation Law and the Governor recklessly abandons laws of the state. These new hawks in the scene and all those who are quick to refer to the Governor as ‘Mr. Innocent’ will not go and advise him.

    “They prefer to hold talk shows, organize rallies, hold press conferences and announce that the House commenced impeachment proceedings against the Governor for no just cause but fail to ask the Governor if he has not been informed of the particulars of gross misconduct leveled against him or at least read them when they were filed in Court in response to his petition.

    “They must not forget that the Rivers State House of Assembly has the mandate of the people and that we swore an oath of allegiance to the Constitution to do the needful including the Impeachment of the Governor as a last resort.

    “So, if it becomes a last resort, in accordance with the law, we will not hesitate to do so, because no individual is bigger than Rivers State, including the Governor.

    “We assure the good people of Rivers State that we remain undeterred in our service to our fatherland and no number of threats including those of violence against us just like they attacked the Speaker’s residence will make us abandon our constitutional mandate to make laws for the good governance of our dear State.

    “Efforts to utilize misguided individuals and attack dogs to spew lies against the House or misinform the populace with the intention of bringing the House to disrepute has only succeeded in strengthening our resolve to represent our people even better by focusing on our job and ignoring their distractions.”

    The lawmakers recalled how they survived sponsored attacks on the House from persons they described as enemies of the people and those who could not withstand the principles of the rule of law “as well as checks and balances in our nascent democracy”.

    They said such democratic forces out of their frustration started with the burning and later demolition of the Hallowed Chamber insisting that their plot was to eliminate the legislature for pushing for the independence granted her by the Constitution.

    The lawmakers said: “We survived these attacks. Their new strategy is to use another arm of government, lobbyists, attack dogs and the mainstream and social media to bring the House to disrepute and consummate their agenda. In this regard, various individuals, groups, media mercenaries have been recruited to actualize their objectives”

    The lawmakers described the Secondus group under the auspices of Former Rivers State Presidential Campaign Council as the latest of the new groups recruited against the 10th Assembly.

    They said: “In a press conference on the 26th of March 2024 signed by Dr. Abiye Sekibo, this group inferred that the House is an illegal and unconstitutional Assembly. Others in this group are the likes of Rt. Hon. Austin Opara, Senator Lee Maeba and Prince Uche Secondus. Hon. Tamunosisi Gogo Jaja, Sir Celestine Omehia, amongst others.

    “They are among these desperate politicians who left their houses and gathered under a canopy with H.E. Atiku Abubakar and H.E. Ifeanyi Okowa’s pictures on a banner behind them professing their new support for Mr. President and the Rivers State Governor.

    “On the other hand, they derided the 10th Assembly who they are unhappy with for joining the All Progressives Congress (APC) which incidentally is the President’s political party. Worse still, they lied against and attacked the FCT Minister who worked tirelessly for the victory of the President and the Governor in Rivers State.

    “In other words, they are against those who defeated them and put them to shame by ensuring the victory of the President and Governor in the State, but they now “subscribe” to the President and Governor. What a weak strategy from a group who think they are smart!

    “The good people of Rivers State know who they truly are. Our constituents will not forget in a hurry how they fought against the candidature of the current Governor and Mr. President during the elections. We are not surprised that they are no more saying all the unprintable things against the President and the Governor because this is who they are.

    “They now want to advise the President and use unprintable words against the former Governor of Rivers State- His Excellency, Ezenwo Nyesom Wike CON. GSSRS. Life Bencher who God used to unite and transform Rivers State to enviable heights.

    “Their new game plan is to blackmail Mr. President with “oil production and OPEC Quota”. This is the end game for them. What a shame!

    “They said in their statement that they now support the Renewed Hope Agenda and we are not against it. However, can they be trusted going by their past actions? Is it not a ploy to deceive the President, gain rewards and milestones as usual and later fight back after discrediting their old benefactor – the FCT Minister?

    “Time will tell, but we must keep in mind that they vowed ‘never to serve master and later boy’ and campaigned that the President was unqualified, not healthy enough and unfit for the job.

    “We were inundated by the sad commentaries and speeches of their spokesperson in the media against the President, Governor, and those of us who stood by the President and Governor”.

    The lawmakers vowed to make a positive difference in legislation, oversight functions and effective representation.

    “Several Bills that are in the interest of the State have succeeded so far and resolutions passed with the objective of making things better. As we push to meet or surpass the yearnings and aspirations of our constituents, we are focused on our avowed goal of legislative oversight for the betterment of the good people of Rivers State”, they said.

    Read Also: Rivers Assembly renews threat to impeach Fubara

    They asked the President to ignore the group which they branded as hawks, saying in due time, such individuals would reveal their true intentions.

    They said: “We remain very prayerful and ever supportive of the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr President’s government. We toiled day and night while these hawks called us names as we canvassed for votes for Mr. President from unit to unit, ward to ward and LGA to LGA.

    “Today, we have happily joined our progressive party with the intention of supporting Mr. President and further protecting what we worked for- his mandate.

    “No amount of blackmail would derail the resolve of this 10th Assembly to support Mr. President, his government and especially the son of Rivers State that is making us proud as the FCT-Minister- His Excellency, Ezenwo Nyesom Wike.

    “We also call on Nigerians to give Mr President’s efforts at economic recovery and improved life all the support that it deserves.

    “Finally, we assure the good people of Rivers State of our commitment to stand up for them and urge them to remain prayerful against tyranny and dictatorship in the state because we believe that as agents of positive change, things can be better in the State if the rule of law prevails and there is mutual respect for and from all arms of government and institutions”.

    The 27 lawmakers, who signed the document are Martin Amaewhule, Dumle Mail, Jack Major, Somiari-Stewart Linda, Franklin Nwabochi, Ofiks, Kabang Christopher, Azeru Okpara, Opuende Isaiah, Tekenari Granville, Adoki Smart, Wami Solomon, Enemi Alabo, Igwe Aforji, Prince Nyeche, Emilia Amadi and Enyinna Sylvanus.

    Others are Ezekwe Ijeoma, Abbey Peter, Arnold Davis, Barile Nwakoh, Onwuka Obenachi, Arnold Davids, Gerald Oforji, Ngbar Bernard, Emeji Mgbechukwu, John Iderema, Tony-Wiliams Uwuma and Chimezie Nwankwo.

    Councillor, SDP candidate declare support for Fubara in Rivers

    The Leader of Ahoada East Legislative Assembly, Bernard ThankGod Unwhe, has declared support for Governor Fubara in the face off with Wike.

    The Social Democratic Party (SDP) candidate in the 2023 election for Ahoada East Constituency in the State House of Assembly,  MacSunday Ugwu, has also dumped his party to identify with the governor.

    Unwhe and Ugwu revealed their new camps during a meeting presided over by the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Dr Edison Ehie, at Government House, Port Harcourt.

    The two leaders in the area were accompanied to the meeting by the former councillor representing Ahoada East Ward 11, Daniel Igbudu.

    A statement signed by Fubara’s Chief Press Secretary (CPS), Nelson Chukwudi, said the Managing Director, Rivers State Signage and Advertising Agency (RISAA), Aye Pepple, was also present at the meeting.

    Pepple was also a member of the Rivers State House of Assembly between 2007 and 2015 and represented Bonny State Constituency.

    Fubara, in a broadcast last December had pledged his commitment to implementing the eight -point peace agreement.

    He said the implementation would be done without compromising the collective interest of the people and democratic values.

    He said as a principal participant in the saga, he had taken some time to study the terms of the proclamation and had come to the conclusion that the peace pact was not as bad as it might be portrayed by those opposed to it.

    Fubara said the peace accord “is not a death sentence”, but an opportunity to achieve the needed stability in the state, adding that both sides of the divide have so far demonstrated some goodwill towards the implementation of the agreement.

    He said while the Martin Amaewhule led Assembly which is loyal to Wike had withdrawn the impeachment notice, his government had also released the withheld allowance of the State House of Assembly.

    However, signs that renewed hostilities might break out between the governor’s camp and that of Wike reared their heads recently when the State Assembly passed into law the repealed House of Assembly Service Commission Bill, overriding the power of the governor

    The law as repealed took away the power to appoint the chairman and members of the State House of Assembly Service Commission from the governor and vested it in the Assembly.

    Fubara’s Chief of Staff, Edison Ehie, criticized the assembly for the  action and said it lacked power to do what it did.

  • Rivers Assembly renews threat to impeach Fubara

    Rivers Assembly renews threat to impeach Fubara

    The political crisis rocking Rivers State has assumed a dangerous dimension following a renewed threat by Rivers Assembly to commence a fresh impeachment proceeding against Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

    The 27 lawmakers, who are now members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), said on Saturday that they would not hesitate to remove Fubara as the last resort for continuously breaching critical provisions of the Constitution.

    The lawmakers in their position paper they read at a briefing in Port Harcourt also lambasted a former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Uche Secondus, Dr. Abiye Sekibo and others, who under the auspices of the Former Rivers State PDP Presidential Campaign Council, attacked the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, Chief Nyesom Wike.

    The lawmakers said it was laughable for the Secondus group, who worked against the victory of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Fubara in the last elections to declare support for Tinubu and Fubara and tried to despise and lie against Wike, who made the victories possible.

     The lawmakers said: “These new arrivals have just landed like hawks. They now want to grab what they spat on but need to be careful of their rantings and utterances against the institution of the legislature and the FCT- Minister as they can derail the existing peace in the State. 

    “The FCT- Minister is doing fabulously well in Abuja and should be commended. Rather than looking for advise for Mr. President who we believe knows them very well, should they not be calling on the Governor to learn to abide by the laws of Rivers State and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria?

    “Should these new self-acclaimed advisers also not be advising the Governor to do the needful so that there can be a smooth transition from the current democratically elected Councils in the State to the next democratically elected Councils and avoid the challenges of attempting the opposite. 

    “What about advising the Governor to heed to the Peace Agreement he begged for, willingly signed, and has chosen not to abide by some of the terms?

    “It is worthy of note that the notice of impeachment of the Governor was quickly withdrawn by members of the House in fulfilment of the terms of the agreement and out of immense respect for the person and office of the President of the Federal Republic and believing that there would be a u-turn in terms of unlawful actions of the Governor. 

    “The reverse is now the case as we see from day to day the activities of the State Governor been conducted outside the laws of Rivers State and the Constitution.

    “To this day, Rivers State remains the only State without an Appropriation Law and the Governor recklessly abandons laws of the State. These new hawks in the scene and all those who are quick to refer to the Governor as ‘Mr. Innocent’ will not go and advise him. 

    “They prefer to hold talk shows, organize rallies, hold press conferences, and announce that the House commenced impeachment proceedings against the Governor for no just cause but fail to ask the Governor if he has not been informed of the particulars of gross misconduct levelled against him or at least read them when they were filed in Court in response to his petition. 

    Read Also: Rivers Assembly enacts another law without Fubara’s assent

    “They must not forget that the Rivers State House of Assembly has the mandate of the people and that we swore an oath of allegiance to the Constitution to do the needful including the Impeachment of the Governor as a last resort. So, if it becomes a last resort, in accordance with the law, we will not hesitate to do so because no individual is bigger than Rivers State, including the Governor.

    “We assure the good people of Rivers State that we remain undeterred in our service to our father land and no number of threats including those of violence against us just like they attacked the Speaker’s residence will make us abandon our Constitutional mandate to make laws for the good governance of our dear State. 

    “Efforts to utilize misguided individuals and attack dogs to spew lies against the House or misinform the populace with the intention of bringing the House to disrepute has only succeeded in strengthening our resolve to represent our people even better by focusing on our job and ignoring their distractions”.

    The lawmakers recalled how they survived sponsored attacks on the House from persons they described as enemies of the people and those who could not withstand the principles of the rule of law “as well as checks and balances in our nascent democracy”.

    They said such democratic forces out of their frustration started with the burning and later demolition of the Hallowed Chamber insisting that their plot was to eliminate the legislature for pushing for the independence granted her by the Constitution.

    The lawmakers said: “We survived these attacks. Their new strategy is to use another arm of government, lobbyists, attack dogs and the mainstream and social media to bring the House to disrepute and consummate their agenda. In this regard, various individuals, groups, media mercenaries have been recruited to actualize their objectives”

    The lawmakers insisted that the Secondus group under the auspices of the Former Rivers State Presidential Campaign Council was the latest of the new groups recruited against the 10th Assembly.

     They said: “In a press conference on the 26th of March 2024 signed by Dr. Abiye Sekibo, this group inferred that the House is an illegal and unconstitutional Assembly. Others in this group are the likes of Rt. Hon. Austin Opara, Senator Lee Maeba and Prince Uche Secondus. Hon. Tamunosisi Gogo Jaja, Sir Celestine Omehia amongst others. 

    “They  are among these desperate politicians who left their houses and gathered under a canopy with H.E. Atiku Abubakar and H.E. Ifeanyi Okowa’s pictures on a banner behind them professing their new support for Mr. President and the Rivers State Governor. 

    “On the other hand, they derided the 10th Assembly who they are unhappy with for joining the All Progressives Congress (APC) which incidentally is the President’s Political Party. Worse still, they lied against and attacked the FCT Minister who worked tirelessly for the victory of the President and the Governor in Rivers State.

    “In other words, they are against those who defeated them and put them to shame by ensuring the victory of the President and Governor in the State, but they now “subscribe” to the President and Governor. What a weak strategy from a group who think they are smart!

    “The good people of Rivers State know who they truly are. Our constituents will not forget in a hurry how they fought against the Candidature of the current Governor and Mr. President during the elections. We are not surprised that they are no more saying all the unprintable things against the President and the Governor because this is who they are. 

    “They now want to advise the President and use unprintable words against the former Governor of Rivers State- His Excellency, Ezenwo Nyesom Wike CON. GSSRS. Life Bencher who God used to unite and transform Rivers State to enviable heights. Their new game plan is to blackmail Mr. President with “oil production and OPEC Quota”. This is the end game for them. What a shame!

    “They said in their statement that they now support the Renewed Hope Agenda and we are not against it. However, can they be trusted going by their past actions? Is it not a ploy to deceive the President, gain rewards and milestones as usual and later fight back after discrediting their old benefactor- the FCT Minister. 

    “Time will tell but we must keep in mind that they vowed ‘never to serve master and later boy’ and campaigned that the President was unqualified, not healthy enough and unfit for the job. We were inundated by the sad commentaries and speeches of their spokesperson in the media against the President, Governor, and those of us who stood by the President and Governor”.

    The lawmakers vowed to make a positive difference in legislation, oversight functions and effective representation. 

    “Several Bills that are in the interest of the State have succeeded so far and resolutions passed with the objective of making things better. As we push to meet or surpass the yearnings and aspirations of our constituents, we are focused on our avowed goal of legislative oversight for the betterment of the good people of Rivers State”, they said. 

    They called on Mr. President to ignore ignore the group they referred to as hawks saying In due time such individuals would reveal their true intentions.

    They said: “We remain very prayerful and ever supportive of the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr President’s government. We toiled day and night while these hawks called us names as we canvassed for votes for Mr. president from unit to unit, ward to ward and LGA to LGA.

    “Today, we have happily joined our progressive party with the intention of supporting Mr. President and further protecting what we worked for- His mandate. No amount of blackmail would derail the resolve of this 10th Assembly to support Mr. President, his government and especially the son of Rivers State that is making us proud as the FCT-Minister- His Excellency, Ezenwo Nyesom Wike.

    “We also call on Nigerians to give Mr President’s efforts at economic recovery and improved life all the support that it deserves. Finally, we assure the good people of Rivers State of our commitment to stand up for them and urge them to remain prayerful against tyranny and dictatorship in the State because we believe that as agents of positive change, things can be better in the State if the rule of law prevails and there is mutual respect for and from all arms of government and institutions”.

    The 27 lawmakers,  who signed the document are Martin Amaewhule, Dumle Mail, Jack Major, Somiari-Stewart Linda, Franklin Nwabochi, Ofiks, Kabang Christopher, Azeru Okpara, Opuende Isaiah, Tekenari Granville, Adoki Smart, Wami Solomon, Enemi Alabo, Igwe Aforji, Prince Nyeche, Emilia Amadi and Enyinna Sylvanus.

    Others are Ezekwe Ijeoma, Abbey Peter, Arnold Davis, Barile Nwakoh, Onwuka Obenachi, Arnold Davids, Gerald Oforji, Ngbar Bernard, Emeji Mgbechukwu, John Iderema, Tony-Wiliams Uwuma and Chimezie Nwankwo.

  • 11 GDI coordinators declare support for Fubara

    11 GDI coordinators declare support for Fubara

    At least 11 ward coordinators in Ahoada-East, Rivers state, have resigned their membership of the group and pledged unalloyed loyalty to Governor Siminalayi Fubara, in the ongoing realignment of political interest in the state.

    A statement signed by Fubara’s chief press secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, said 11 GDI coordinators were in Government House, Port Harcourt to pay a solidarity visit to the governor.

    They said they had been deceived and misled in the past few months and decided to retrace their steps and join the mass of Rivers people to defend and protect their votes and mandate freely given to Fubara.

    The coordinators, who were received by the Chief of Staff, Edison Ehie, pledged to mobilise all their supporters and associates to back the state government to enable it to deliver good governance and sustainable development to Rivers people.

    They said having watched the actions and policy direction of the governor, they were convinced to take action to stop detractors from undermining the government.

    Read Also: Nothing will cut short my tenure, says Fubara

    The coordinators were accompanied by the former LGA Coordinator of GDI, Christian Abu, and Ahoada East LGA Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Handsome Ekelechi Agile.

    They said that with their movement to the SIMplified Family, the GDI structure in Ahoada East had completely collapsed.

    While declaring their total support and loyalty to Governor Fubara, they warned that anybody fighting the Governor and the Chief of Staff would incur the wrath of the land.

    In his remarks, Ehie assured them of the government’s commitment to the well-being of all Rivers people and the consolidation of the gains of the infrastructural revolution of the administration.

    He told them that the government was operating an open-door policy and running an inclusive administration and assured that every Rivers man and woman would be touched positively by the actions, policies, and programmes of the government.

    The former GDI Coordinators are Chinwe Okorji representing Ward 1; Henry Uhor for Ward 2; Hon. Muzan Otuza of Ward 3; Hon. Elvis Ishikaku representing Ward 4; and Hon. Johnson Monday of Ward 5.

    Others are Mr. Evidence Adi for Ward 6; Emmanuel Ochu of Ward 7;

    Hon. Fidelis Ikebuluwa representing Ward 8; Martins Odoi of Ward 9; Hon. Mackson Ekpeye representing Ward 10; Hon. Ambrose Ile for Ward 12.

  • Nothing will cut short my tenure, says Fubara

    Nothing will cut short my tenure, says Fubara

    Rivers Governor Siminalayi Fubara has assured residents nothing will reduce his tenure in office.

    Fubara said his government was popularly elected at the poll and deserved to serve out its full tenure.

    He said: “The whole land of Rivers State stands in affirmation that we won the election fairly, and deserve to serve out our full tenure. There is not going to be anything that will cut short the popular mandate that you all gave to this administration.”

    He told them not to panic and be rest assured of the determination of his administration to protect lives and property of residents.

    Fubara spoke when he addressed members of the Family Support Group (FSP) on solidarity visit to Government House in Port Harcourt on Wednesday to declare their unalloyed support to his Administration.

    A statement by Fubara’s Chief Press Secretary (CPS), Nelson Chukwudi, explained that FSP  “is an assemblage of well-meaning Rivers youths, women and men drawn from the three Senatorial Districts and 23 local government areas, with the core aim of protecting, promoting and defending the interests of Rivers State”.

    Fubara, who was represented by the Head of Rivers State Civil Service, Dr. George Nwaeke, said that the government was for the youths, women, men and every well-meaning Nigerian, who wished the State well.

    He assured that his administration would not disappoint their expectations, and would deliver good governance and quality services across all sectors.

    Read Also: Rivers Rep member, other PDP chieftains declare loyalty to Fubara

    Fubara said it was gratifying to see such ebullient youths showing undying interest in government, and were also willing to defend their votes, and therefore, desired the tenure completed without interruption.

    The Governor explained that many developmental projects had been completed and opened for public use with many others like the Port Harcourt Ring Road still actively ongoing.

    He specifically noted the readiness of the administration to kick off the construction of phase two of the real Trans-Kalabari Road from Port Harcourt through Tombia to other communities; and the Elele-Egbeda-Omoku Road. 

    He said: “Just about within weeks of assuming office, His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, flagged-off the Port Harcourt Ring Road project that will transverse six local governments. It will be completed within 36 months, but I think it will be completed before the time, because the progress of work we have seen is beyond what we were thinking. 

    “The Trans-Kalabari Kalabari Road, very soon, the official main Trans-Kalabari Road will start, and will begin from Port Harcourt. That road, a lot of plans have been done, very soon, you will see contractors on site, and Rivers State will be opened. 

    “Just yesterday, you heard in the news also that the Governor has commenced the construction of the Elele-Egbeda-Omoku Road.  That road was initially done with one lane, but now, he is going to dualise it. The Government has already awarded the contract.”

    Fubara emphasised that his administration remained pro-youth and pro-human beings, and determined to maintain that level of empathy and inclusivity that offered succour to the people.

    He said: “I, therefore, want to thank you for the promise you have made, and I want you to remain unshakable. Keep your word of defending him at all times.

    “When you hear anything outside, be bold, defend the Governor, and tell the people the things you know about him. Tell them what you know he has done to develop the State and the people.”

    In his address, the President-General of Family Support Group, Mr. Henry Abraham, recalled that during the 2023 elections, they were encouraged to vote and defend their votes because the process was violence-free and credible. 

    He said: “When we defend our votes, we will also defend the man we voted for. We are Family Support Group, Rivers State belongs to all of us. Rivers State is not a personal estate of one man, it’s for all Rivers people.

    “Sir Siminalayi Fubara, stand firm. Family Support Group is with you. All the wards’ co-ordinators are with you. All the wards’ executives are with you. All the LGA coordinators are with you. All the officers of the National Executive Committee are with you. All our leaders are with you, and the PDP is with you,” he assured.

  • Rivers Rep member, other PDP chieftains declare loyalty to Fubara

    Rivers Rep member, other PDP chieftains declare loyalty to Fubara

    The member representing Ikwerre/Emohua Federal Constituency at the House of Representatives, Boniface Emerengwa, has declared his loyalty to the state governor, Siminalayi Fubara, following the political crisis rocking the state.

    A statement signed by Fubara’s chief press secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, said the governor received the federal lawmaker in Government House, Port Harcourt, on Monday evening.

    Fubara insisted his government would never be distracted from delivering on its promises to the Rivers people.

     Emerengwa, who hails from Ikwerre local government area, said he decided to support Fubara because he remained both the leader of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the state.

    He said it was unnecessary and futile to continue to struggle over, who controlled the party and the state when the Constitution had clarified such matter.

    Emerengwa pledged to mobilise thousands of his supporters in his constituency to join the governor in his efforts to ensure peace and the development of the state.

    The former chairman of the Ikwerre local government area said that Rivers people had chosen Fubara through their votes to lead them.

    He said following his victory at the poll and court, Fubara had become the number one citizen of the state, adding that only the blind would not see the giant strides of Fubara in Rivers.

    Read Also: Fubara decorates ADC, camp commandant with new ranks

    He said: “The best way to assist the state grows as Rivers people is to support the governor in every way possible to achieve sustainable peace and accelerate inclusive development of the state.”

    Emerengwa was accompanied to Government House by three other House of Representatives members,  Awaji-Inombek Abiante of Andoni-Opobo/Nkoro Federal Constituency;  Boma Goodhead of Akuku-Toru/Asari-Toru Federal Constituency and and  Anderson Allison Igbiks of Okrika-Ogu/Bolo Federal Constituency.

    The statement said the development came amidst resignations of elected politicians across the local government areas in solidarity with Fubara.

    One of those who resigned from their council positions was the Leader of Obio/akpor legislative council and councillor representing Ward 9, Achor Prince Nna.

    Nna, who resigned on March 7, said his decision was borne out of his personal conviction to align with the truth and Progressives to liberate the state.

    On March 18, Supervisor for Youths and Sports in Obio/Akpor Local Government Council and member representing Obio/Akpor Ward 17, Newman Ogbonda, also resigned to join the Simplified Movement.

    Ogbonda in his letter said: “I officially write to resign my position as the Supervisor for Youths and Sports in Obio/Akpor Local Government Council to clear my good conscience and to align myself with the administration of the Governor, His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Joseph Fubara, the Executive Governor of Rivers State and his vision to better the State.

    Also, on March 17, the President-General of Akpor Consultative Assembly, Chief Hanny Woko, pitched a tent with Fubara’s Government and the SIMplified Movement.

    On March 20, the Supervisory Councillor for Health and Social Welfare in Asari-Toru Local Government Council, Dr Ipalibo Jenberetoa George resigned from his position to join the Simplified Movement of Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

  • Fubara decorates ADC, camp commandant with new ranks

    Fubara decorates ADC, camp commandant with new ranks

    Rivers State governor, Siminalayi Fubara has decorated his Aide De Camp (ADC), Iwuji Barnabas Iliya, with his new rank of Superintendent of Police and the Camp Commandant, Adonoja Simon Onoja, as Superintendent of Police.

    The brief ceremony took place at the Government House, Port Harcourt, on Monday, March 25, and was witnessed by the Commissioner of Police, Rivers State Command, Olatunji Disu.

    A statement signed by Fubara’s Chief Press Secretary (CPS), Nelson Chukwudi, quoted the State Commissioner of Police, Olatunji Disu, as congratulating the officers for their elevation.

    Disu said: “The police authority must have seen them to be worthy of the new rank for all they have been doing as police officers; protection of lives and property, and most especially, for working and excelling in a place of esteem.

    “The government has seen them worthy. The police authority has seen them worthy. So, that is why they have been promoted today.”

    Expressing his gratitude, the ADC to Governor Fubara, Iwuji Barnabas Iliya, said he was the most honoured and privileged individual in the Nigeria Police Force, having been blessed with such privilege to be promoted as a Superintendent of Police.

    He said: “And also, being privileged to be decorated by my Principal, the Executive Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, in the company of my wife and the Commissioner of Police, Rivers State Command, Olatunji Disu.

    Read Also: Rivers Chief of Staff clashes with House of Assembly on provisions of new law enacted without Fubara’s assent

    He particularly thanked the Inspector-General of Police, Dr. Kayode Egbetokun, and the Police Service Commission (PSC) for the honour done to him, by rewarding his hard work and commitment with the promotion.

    He said: “I think, there is no amount of words that can express the level of gratitude this noble opportunity has accorded to me.”

    On his part, the Camp Commandant of Government House, Adonoja Simon Onoja, said it was a great honour to be decorated with his new rank by the Executive Governor of Rivers state, Siminalayi Fubara.

    He said: “I am grateful to the Inspector General of Police. I am also grateful to the Commissioner of Police, Rivers State Command, Olatunji Disu, and most especially, His Excellency, the Governor of Rivers State for the privilege and honour given to me.

    “I am equally eternally grateful to God Almighty for promoting me to the next rank. I am grateful. I cannot thank all those who made this success story possible enough.  I am indebted to them. And I commit not to disappoint.”

  • Rivers Assembly enacts another law without Fubara’s assent

    Rivers Assembly enacts another law without Fubara’s assent

    The Rivers State House of Assembly has enacted another new law bypassing the assent of the state Governor, Sir. Siminalayi Fubara.

    The Assembly  was informed during an unscheduled plenary by the majority leader of the House, Major Jack that the Rivers State House of Assembly Service Commission Amendment Law, which he said was sent to the governor since February 19th had not been signed by Fubara.

    He said:  “Mr Speaker, I draw the notice of this house that since then 30 days have elapsed. Let me go to the Constitution Section 100 (4) Where a Bill is presented to the governor for assent he shall within 30 days thereof signify that he assents or withholds assent. Mr Speaker, having given this letter to the governor, I’m bringing it to the notice of this house that the 30 days have elapsed.”

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    The Speaker was said to have called for a debate and members of the Assembly agreed that Section 100 (5) should be invoked to enable the House override the governor.

    It was gathered that 24 voted in favour of overriding the veto of the governor.

    The speaker said: “By this voting 24 members are far and above two thirds and what this means is that we have surpassed the constitutional requirements for overriding the assent of the governor.

    “By this, the Rivers State House of Assembly Service Commission is hereby passed and the assent of the governor is no longer required for it to be law in this state.”

    The House had in January enacted four laws without the assent of the governor.

  • JUST IN: Rivers Assembly rules against Fubara, enacts service commission law

    JUST IN: Rivers Assembly rules against Fubara, enacts service commission law

    The Rivers State House of Assembly has again ruled against Governor Siminalayi Fubara to enact the Rivers State House of Assembly, RSHA Service Commission Law.

    This makes it the second time the Rivers Assembly will override the governor to pass a law this year.

    In January, the lawmakers voted to override the governor and pass four bills into law.

    This was contained in a statement issued by Martins Wachukwu, media aide to the speaker, and sent to newsmen.

    The statement said the lawmakers decided after the governor withheld his assent to the four Bills via letters to the House, which were read on the floor of the House; stating that such amendments would create confusion and breach constitutional provisions.

    Read Also: ‘Fubara will continue to promote’ ‘peace

    Remarking on the Rivers State House of Assembly Fund Management Bill, which was represented by the Majority Leader, Major Jack, and debated by members, the speaker, Martin Amaewhule, cited Section 100(5) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 as altered, which empowers the House to override the Governor, where the Governor withholds his assent.

    In like manner, the Rivers State Local Government Law (Amendment) Bill, the Rivers State Traditional Rulers’ Law (Amendment) Bill, and the Rivers State Advertisement and Use of State-owned Property Prohibition (Repeal) Bill were all represented, debated, and voted upon with a unanimous decision to override the governor’s assent.