The political crisis in Rivers State appears to be easing as Governor Siminalayi Fubara has invited the 27 embattled members of the State House of Assembly for a reconciliation meeting to prioritize the state’s interests.
In a letter from the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Tammy Danagogo, addressed to Speaker Martins Amaewhule, the governor’s decision was cited as a move to comply with the recent Supreme Court ruling on the state’s political impasse.
The Supreme Court had last week ordered the resumption of the 27 lawmakers and barred the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Accountant General from releasing funds to the state until a proper appropriation law was enacted. The court also nullified the October 5, 2024, local government elections, ruling that they did not comply with electoral laws.
Following the ruling, the Assembly gave Fubara a 48-hour ultimatum to re-present the 2025 budget. In response, the governor assured compliance with the judgment, though he noted his legal team was still reviewing its implications.
To demonstrate his commitment, Fubara instructed Heads of Local Government Administration (HLGAs) to take charge of the 23 local government councils until fresh elections are held.
Meeting Agenda and Reconciliation Efforts
Having received the certified true copy of the ruling, Fubara invited the lawmakers for a reconciliation meeting on March 10, 2025, at the Governor’s Office in Port Harcourt. According to the SSG’s letter, the agenda includes:
- Providing a suitable venue for Assembly sittings.
- Settling all outstanding allowances of the lawmakers.
- Re-presenting the 2025 Budget.
- Other matters necessary to move the state forward.
The letter urged Speaker Amaewhule and his colleagues to attend, emphasizing the need for stability in Rivers State.
Ijaw Leaders Condemn Threats of Violence
Meanwhile, former Ijaw local government chairmen have condemned threats by some groups to disrupt oil production if Fubara faces impeachment.
The ex-chairmen criticized ethnic-based agitation, arguing that the Supreme Court ruling did not order the governor’s removal. They urged security agencies to enforce the court’s decision and cautioned against using the Ijaw identity to incite violence.
Notable figures, including Prof. Benjamin Okaba and Alhaji Mujaheed Asari Dokubo, had reportedly warned of consequences if Fubara was impeached. However, the former council bosses questioned why these figures remained silent when local government allocations were withheld under Fubara’s administration.
“We strongly condemn these empty threats and urge the federal government to disregard such statements,” the leaders declared.
With the Supreme Court’s ruling now in effect, the coming days will determine whether Fubara and the Assembly can reach a peaceful resolution or if tensions in Rivers State will escalate further.
