The faction of the Rivers State House of Assembly aligned with former governor and current Minister, Nyesom Wike, has expressed strong support for President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in the state.
In a statement, the lawmakers pledged their full backing for the newly appointed Sole Administrator, emphasizing their commitment to ensuring stability and governance in Rivers State during this period of political tension.
“We assure our constituents that we will abide by this declaration, even though it is not what we prayed for. Mr. President has acted in the best interest of the country,” the Speaker Amaewhule said.
He blamed Governor Siminalayi Fubara for the crisis in Rivers, accusing him of disregarding court rulings and obstructing legislative functions.
“The condition of our dear Rivers State today is mainly because of the malfeasance of the governor, who serially disobeyed court judgments and obstructed the Rivers State House of Assembly,” he stated.
The Speaker urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with Admiral Ibokette Ibas, the former Chief of Naval Staff appointed as the state’s administrator.
“We urge everyone to remain calm as the Sole Administrator assumes duty. Rest assured that the Assembly will give him all the necessary support to restore order,” he added.
NewdayReporters previously reported that President Bola Tinubu sharply criticised Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara amid the ongoing political crisis involving the governor and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, now serving as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
It can be recalled that in a nationwide address on Tuesday evening, Tinubu accused Governor Fubara of unconstitutional actions and a failure to uphold the rule of law.
The President specifically alleged that the governor permitted militants to destroy oil facilities in the state and failed to prevent the vandalism of the Rivers State House of Assembly complex.
The President also alleged that Governor Fubara turned a blind eye to militant activities, accusing them of threatening perceived political opponents and carrying out acts of sabotage.
“Some militants had threatened fire and brimstone against their perceived enemy of the governor who has up till now not disowned them,” Tinubu stated.
He further stated, “Apart from that, both the House and the governor have not been able to work together. Both of them do not realize that they are in office to work together for the peace and good governance of the state.
“On February 28, 2025, the Supreme Court, in a judgment in respect of about eight consolidated appeals concerning the political crisis in Rivers State, based on several grave unconstitutional acts and disregard of rule of law that have been committed by the Governor of Rivers State.”
The political turmoil in Rivers State has intensified since Governor Fubara took office, with tensions escalating between his administration and his predecessor, Wike.
