Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has announced plans to establish a panel of inquiry to examine the governance issues within the state, highlighting a deepening political crisis. This announcement came shortly after the swearing-in of Dagogo Iboroma as the new Attorney General of the state, an event that followed Iboroma’s confirmation by the Victor Oko-Jumbo-led House of Assembly.
Addressing the media, Governor Fubara expressed his concerns about the unresolved political tensions in Rivers State, accusing opposition factions of sabotaging his administration’s efforts towards amicable resolution. “We are in a critical situation where the political crisis has escalated to a point that it cannot be resolved through normal dialogue,” Governor Fubara stated, indicating the need for more drastic measures to address the ongoing issues.
In his speech, Governor Fubara also took the opportunity to respond to comments made by former Attorney General Zacchaeus Adangor and Alabo George-Kelly, former head of the Ministry of Works. He criticized Adangor for actions he described as contrary to the state’s interests, specifically referring to the filing of nolle prosequi— a legal term for a decision by a prosecutor to drop a case.
Discussing George-Kelly’s past remarks, Governor Fubara remarked on his own career trajectory, noting that he was a Chief Account Officer on Level 13 before his political ascent in 2023. He used this personal anecdote to underscore his journey to the governorship, emphasizing, “Even if it was a mistake, by the special grace of God, I am here as a Governor.”
The establishment of the inquiry panel is expected to pave the way for a more structured resolution process, as Governor Fubara vowed to make tough decisions to steer the state back towards stability, regardless of the potential fallout from such decisions. This move signifies a pivotal step in addressing the deep-seated issues that have plagued Rivers State’s political landscape.
