Rivers State Political Crisis Leaves Governor Fubara Stranded
The Rivers State political crisis has escalated dramatically, with Governor Siminalayi Fubara trapped in a fierce battle against impeachment threats backed by Minister Nyesom Wike. As lawmakers abruptly adjourn indefinitely, fears intensify over the state’s future and governance paralysis.
Budget Presentation Halted Amid Political Crisis in Rivers State
The indefinite adjournment threw Governor Fubara’s administration into chaos just as he was poised to present the 2025 budget. Responding obediently to a Supreme Court directive, the Governor formally notified the Assembly of his intention to present the appropriation bill next Wednesday. Yet, with the legislature now on indefinite recess, the state’s governance faces crippling uncertainty.
Fubara, recalling an earlier snub where lawmakers denied him access despite prior notification, underscored the need for cooperation:
“DESPITE OUR POLITICAL DIFFERENCES, THE PEOPLE’S WELFARE MUST BE PRIORITIZED. THE SUPREME COURT MANDATES ALL ARMS OF GOVERNMENT TO OPERATE WITHIN CONSTITUTIONAL LIMITS. THIS STALEMATE MUST END; OUR PEOPLE DESERVE PROGRESS.”
Three Crucial Bills Passed Amid Controversy
Before the stunning adjournment, the Assembly quickly ratified three significant bills:
- The Rivers State House of Assembly (Powers and Privileges) Bill, 2025: Strengthens legislative independence by granting clear powers, privileges, and immunity.
- Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) Bill, 2025: Aligns state electoral guidelines with the Federal Electoral Act 2022 and the Nigerian Constitution.
- Rivers State Local Government Bill, 2025: Modernizes local government laws for improved governance across councils.
Speaker Martins Amaewhule praised his colleagues for sacrificing their recess, stating poignantly, “History will be kind to you for your devotion to our people’s future.”
Wike at the Center of Rivers State Political Crisis—PANDEF Calls for Intervention
Amid this intensifying crisis, regional bodies have called on President Bola Tinubu to urgently intervene. The Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) specifically urged the President to caution Minister Wike, who they accuse of stonewalling crucial peace talks. PANDEF has threatened to abandon its reconciliation efforts altogether if Wike remains obstinate.
Former Akwa Ibom Governor and peace committee chairman Obong Victor Attah expressed deep frustration:
“Negotiations require mutual accessibility. Without Wike’s commitment, catastrophic consequences could follow.”
Echoing Attah’s sentiments, PANDEF Chairman Dr. Godknows Boladei Igali criticized Wike’s derogatory characterization of PANDEF as “the worst organization,” demanding a retraction from the minister through presidential intervention.
Ijaw Groups Rebuke Wike’s Divisive Rhetoric
The Ijaw National Congress (INC) also slammed Wike’s controversial statement describing the Ijaws as “minority of minorities,” emphasizing their significant population and historical prominence. INC spokesman Chief Ezonebi Oyakemeagbegha declared:
“The Ijaws, numbering over 40 million, remain Nigeria’s fourth-largest ethnic group. We’ll not succumb to Wike’s divisive agenda aimed at inciting unrest in the Niger Delta.”
Further amplifying the warning, former Ijaw Youth Council President, Dr. Chris Ekiyor, cautioned Wike fiercely:
“The Ijaw nation, spiritually and historically powerful, cannot be trifled with. Wike forgets his roots—he rose to prominence through an Ijaw president’s goodwill. He must apologize swiftly or brace for profound consequences.”
Judiciary Warns Against Politicization Amid Rivers State Political Crisis
Former Deputy National Chairman of the PDP, Chief Bode George, bluntly condemned Wike’s provocative posture:
“Unless President Tinubu is withholding critical truths, I fail to comprehend why a serving minister continues embarrassing his administration openly. Who is Wike to declare nothing will happen if Governor Fubara is impeached? Is he God?”
George urged swift presidential intervention, warning of widespread implications if the Rivers political impasse remains unresolved.
Judiciary Warns Against Politicization Amid Rivers State Political Crisis
In another striking development, the Independent Judicial Accountability Panel faulted the Supreme Court’s recent ruling on the Rivers political turmoil. Headed by Justice Mojeed Owoade (retired), the panel stated that the apex court’s judgment on the defection of 27 lawmakers was ambiguous, potentially undermining public confidence:
“Complex, lengthy judgments undermine comprehension and erode trust. Courts must exercise caution, and politicians should avoid exerting undue judicial pressure.”
They urged clear boundaries between judicial independence and political interests, cautioning the media to remain impartial and courageous in reporting judicial matters.
A State on Edge: Urgent Intervention Crucial
The political feud threatening to implode Rivers State’s governance underscores the urgent need for measured intervention from Nigeria’s highest authorities. With regional groups and respected political elders sounding alarm bells, President Tinubu faces a critical leadership test.
Can peace prevail, or will Rivers State spiral further into political chaos?
Only decisive action from Aso Rock can restore sanity to the Treasure Base of the Nation.
