Drama in Rivers: Security Locks Out Governor Fubara from State Assembly
In a dramatic turn of events, security operatives at the Rivers State House of Assembly Quarters denied Governor Siminalayi Fubara access on Wednesday, locking the gates as his convoy arrived.
The unexpected blockade sparked fresh controversy in the ongoing political crisis between Fubara and the Assembly, led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule.
Why Was Fubara Locked Out?
Sources revealed that security personnel refused to open the gates, insisting that there was no official communication between the governor and the Assembly leadership regarding his visit. However, Fubara refuted this, stating that he had duly notified Speaker Amaewhule through a formal letter and even tried reaching him by phone since Tuesday.
To back his claim, the Rivers State Government later released a letter notifying the House of Fubara’s planned visit. Yet, the Assembly remained adamant, shutting out the governor in what many see as a blatant power play.
What’s the Real Battle?
The standoff comes amid heightened tensions over the implementation of the Supreme Court’s February 28, 2025, judgment, which Fubara has vowed to enforce. The ruling mandates a fresh local government election, and Fubara has since directed the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) to set August 9, 2025, as the new election date.
Additionally, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Tammy Danagogo, wrote to the Assembly on March 7, inviting lawmakers to a March 10 meeting to discuss the re-presentation of the 2025 budget and a peace dialogue. But rather than engage, the Assembly rejected the invitation, telling the governor to follow the “proper channel.”
Political War Far From Over
This latest showdown underscores the deepening crisis in Rivers State, where the battle for political dominance between Governor Fubara and pro-Wike lawmakers continues to escalate beyond closed doors.
With the Assembly locking out the sitting governor, one question looms: Who truly controls Rivers State?