A dramatic scene unfolded at the Rivers State House of Assembly Complex on Wednesday as Governor Siminalayi Fubara arrived, only to find the entrance gate locked. This shocking development has further exposed the deepening political crisis in the state, with tensions between the governor and lawmakers reaching new heights.
Security Locks Fubara Out, Cites Lack of Communication
Eyewitnesses confirmed that security personnel stationed at the complex deliberately locked the gates just as Fubara’s convoy approached. When questioned, the security officials justified their actions by claiming that there was no formal communication between the governor and the Assembly regarding his visit.
However, Fubara countered this claim, insisting that he had sent a letter to Speaker Martins Amaewhule informing him of his planned visit. He also stated that he had attempted to reach the Speaker via phone since Tuesday, but to no avail.
Fubara Moves to Enforce Supreme Court Judgment
At the heart of this political standoff is Fubara’s determination to implement the Supreme Court’s February 28, 2025, ruling, which has significant implications for governance in Rivers State. As part of his compliance with the judgment, the governor directed the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) to set the process in motion for fresh local government elections.
In response to this directive, RSIEC announced that the elections would be conducted on August 9, 2025, a decision that has further fueled tensions between the executive and legislative arms of the state government.
Budget, Peace Talks, and a Rejected Invitation
In an attempt to foster dialogue, the Secretary to the State Government, Tammy Danagogo, sent a letter to the Assembly on March 7, 2025, proposing a meeting for March 10, 2025. The agenda included discussions on the re-presentation of the 2025 budget and peace negotiations to resolve the ongoing crisis.
However, the Rivers Assembly responded by rejecting the manner in which the invitation was sent, emphasizing that the governor must follow proper procedures if he wishes to engage with lawmakers. . This response has fueled speculations that the lawmakers, largely seen as loyal to former Governor Nyesom Wike, are deliberately making governance difficult for Fubara.
With the Assembly blocking the governor from entry and insisting on “proper procedures” before engaging with him, our question is : Is this about governance, or is it another phase in the battle for political dominance in Rivers State?
