Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, on Thursday called on members of the state House of Assembly to prioritize the well-being of the people and seek peace to resolve the ongoing political crisis in the South-South region.
Speaking during the commissioning of new projects in the Okrika Local Government Area, Fubara emphasized the importance of peace in governance, urging all parties involved to move beyond past grievances for the good of the state.
“It is crucial that we embrace peace at this moment,” Fubara stated. “I need peace to effectively govern, and I ask all political actors in Rivers State to put aside what has happened and focus on fulfilling the Supreme Court’s ruling handed down on February 28, 2025.”
He further underscored that the court’s decision must be respected, and the state must now work towards full compliance.
The governor added, “The Supreme Court has spoken, and we have no choice but to adhere to it. We have already begun the process, and we call on everyone to put Rivers State’s interest first. Our duty to the people is peace and development. I am always open to dialogue, as peace is essential for effective governance.”
Tensions have been escalating between the governor and the Rivers State House of Assembly, particularly with members loyal to former governor Nyesom Wike.
The most recent flare-up occurred on Wednesday when Fubara was denied entry to the Assembly Quarters after attempting to present the state’s 2025 budget, as instructed by the House following the Supreme Court’s ruling.
While Fubara communicated his planned visit to Speaker Martins Amaewhule, the Assembly claimed to have received no official notification, adding to the growing political rift.
Meanwhile, Fubara’s political mentor-turned-critic, Nyesom Wike, weighed in during a media chat in Abuja, asserting that there was nothing wrong if the legislature chose to remove the governor over alleged impeachable offenses, including the withholding of lawmakers’ salaries.
Wike, who had backed the Assembly’s current leadership, expressed support for any action that could bring about accountability.
The Supreme Court, in its landmark decision, not only upheld Amaewhule’s position as Speaker of the House but also imposed financial restrictions on the state, barring entities like the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) from releasing funds until Rivers State complies with the court’s orders.
The court also invalidated the controversial October 5, 2024, local government elections and directed Fubara to conduct fresh elections, along with re-presenting the 2025 budget to the Amaewhule-led House.
As the political standoff continues, Governor Fubara remains hopeful that peace and cooperation will ultimately prevail for the benefit of Rivers State’s future.
