The political crisis in Rivers State continues as lawmakers refute claims made by Governor Siminalayi Fubara. The conflict between the governor and the state House of Assembly members, who support Minister Nyesom Wike, has escalated since the Supreme Court reinstated the legislators.
Governor Fubara accused the Assembly of blocking his attempt to present the 2025 budget, but lawmakers insist this is untrue. According to Hon. Enemi George, Chairman of the Assembly’s Information Committee, the governor never formally submitted a budget proposal.
He claimed the Assembly had requested the budget within 48 hours of the Supreme Court ruling, but Fubara failed to respond. The lawmakers argue that the governor is misleading the public to gain sympathy.
Governor Fubara also alleged that the Assembly prevented him from accessing the legislative complex. However, lawmakers explained that after the Assembly building was demolished, they relocated to their residential quarters, where they now hold sessions.
They emphasized that the governor never followed the proper procedure to request entry, instead making a public scene at the gate before leaving.
The Supreme Court invalidated the governor’s previously appointed commissioners. The Assembly asked Fubara to submit a new list—even if it contained the same names—to ensure legal compliance.
Instead, the governor rejected the request and reportedly instructed his commissioners to sue the Assembly
Lawmakers also responded to criticisms regarding their petition against the Rivers State Chief Judge over alleged age falsification. Since they couldn’t investigate the matter directly, they referred it to the Department of State Services (DSS).
Similarly, the Assembly attempted to engage the state’s electoral commission on election planning, but officials refused to accept their letters, allegedly under the governor’s orders.
Reports suggested that the Assembly indefinitely adjourned its sittings, but lawmakers clarified that the term “sine die” simply means the next meeting date is uncertain. They insisted they could reconvene anytime, depending on the Speaker’s instructions.
Lawmakers denied any plans to impeach Governor Fubara, stating that no such motion had been discussed. They expressed disappointment over the ongoing political crisis, stressing that governance in Rivers State had stalled due to the conflicts.
The Assembly also accused the governor of withholding their funds for over a year. They claimed this financial restriction affected not just lawmakers but also about 200 Assembly staff, essential services, and operations.
