In a stunning political maneuver, the administration of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has officially recognized Martin Amaewhule as the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly. This development signifies a major concession in the power struggle between Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, under whom Amaewhule served as a loyal ally.
The recognition was contained in a letter dated March 5, 2025, signed by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Chief Dr. Tammy Wenike Danagogo, and addressed to the Rivers State House of Assembly. The letter not only acknowledged Amaewhule’s leadership but also distanced the Fubara-led government from claims that it had received an ultimatum from the Assembly to present the 2025 budget within 48 hours.
Power Struggle and Supreme Court Ruling
This move comes in the wake of a Supreme Court judgment that effectively overturned earlier decisions favoring Fubara’s loyalists in the House. While the governor had initially resisted, his administration now appears to be aligning with the court ruling, marking a significant retreat in his battle for control over the legislative arm of government.
In the letter, the government denied receiving any official communication from the Assembly regarding the budget directive, stating:
“As of the close of work on Tuesday, 4th March 2025, neither the office of the Governor, nor the Deputy Governor, nor the office of the Accountant-General of the State has received the said letter. We only came across the said letter on social media.”
It further reassured that Fubara remains committed to upholding the law, despite his personal reservations about the Supreme Court ruling.
“Notwithstanding His Excellency’s personal opinion on the Supreme Court judgments, he will, as a law-abiding Nigerian, obey and implement their decisions in accordance with the rule of law and the best interest of the people of Rivers State.”
Implications for Rivers State Politics
This recognition of Amaewhule as Speaker is a significant blow to Fubara’s political standing, as it strengthens the influence of Wike’s camp within the state legislature. Amaewhule had been leading a faction of lawmakers loyal to Wike, while another faction backed by Fubara had previously declared its own leadership under Edison Ehie, before he resigned from the Assembly.
By formally acknowledging Amaewhule, the Fubara administration has effectively lost any leverage it had in the legislative arm, making it easier for Wike’s allies to dictate legislative proceedings, including budgetary approvals and oversight functions.
This latest development raises questions about Fubara’s long-term political survival, as he now faces an Assembly controlled by forces that may not have his best interests at heart. The situation also underscores Wike’s continued dominance over Rivers State politics, despite no longer holding an official position in the state government.
With tensions still high and legal battles ongoing, Rivers State remains on the edge as political gladiators continue to maneuver for control.
