The political tension in Rivers State has escalated dramatically as Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the House of Assembly engage in a fiery dispute. The latest battleground is the state’s finances, with the Assembly accusing the Governor of reckless spending without proper approval.
Speaker Martin Amaewhule led the charge, fiercely criticizing Fubara for his “financial irresponsibility,” highlighting the plight of unpaid Emohua Local Government staff as a stark example. Governor Fubara, in a surprising move, responded with a bold claim: he holds the power to dissolve the Assembly if he chooses.
Why It Matters
This narrative adds another layer of complexity to the conflict. While the Governor accuses the Assembly of overstepping their bounds, the Assembly highlights concerns about financial accountability and responsible governance.
This audacious statement further fueled the fire. The Deputy Speaker, Dumle Maol, retaliated by urging his colleagues to veto the Governor’s proposed amendment to the Public Procurement Law. This marks the sixth time in recent months that the Assembly has overruled the Governor’s veto on legislation, indicating a deep lack of trust in his financial management.
What They Are Saying
Governor Fubara, however, paints a different picture. He portrays himself as the tolerant leader, exercising restraint despite constant “intimidation and unwarranted attacks” from the Assembly. He claims his recognition of the Assembly stems solely from a peace accord initiated by President Bola Tinubu, implying they hold no inherent power without his consent.
Meanwhile, a delegation of Bayelsa State leaders, led by former Governor Henry Dickson, visited Governor Fubara to seek a resolution to the crisis and foster better relations between the two states. Dickson emphasized the historical and cultural ties between Rivers and Bayelsa, urging unity and collaboration.
He also commended Governor Fubara for initiating dialogue by visiting his Bayelsa counterpart earlier this year. However, Dickson emphasized the need for shared responsibility from both Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, in resolving the internal disputes plaguing Rivers State.
He envisioned a future where Rivers State plays a leading role in the South-South region, similar to Lagos State’s influence in the South-West. Dickson also commended President Tinubu’s intervention in calming the political tension and urged both leaders in Rivers State to seek guidance from experienced figures within and outside the state to find a lasting solution.
Bottom Line
The crisis in Rivers State exposes a deep rift between the executive and legislative branches. While the Governor claims absolute authority, the Assembly asserts its right to hold him accountable. The Bayelsa delegation’s visit offers a glimmer of hope for reconciliation, but the path towards a peaceful and united Rivers State remains uncertain.
