The Rivers State Assembly, known to be loyal to former Governor Nyesom Wike, has made a surprising move by accepting the emergency rule imposed by President Tinubu, while shifting the blame to Governor Siminialayi Fubara.
This information was conveyed through a statement released on Tuesday by Martin Amaewhule, the Speaker of the House.
It’s worth noting that the relationship between Wike and Fubara has been strained, with Wike’s loyalists in the assembly previously opposing Fubara’s policies. However, by accepting the emergency rule, the assembly is essentially acknowledging that the state’s security situation has spiralled out of control.
Amaewhule acknowledged the Assembly’s compliance with the president’s decision, despite it not aligning with their expectations. He stated, “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 held Governor Siminalayi Fubara accountable for the current crisis in Rivers State, accusing him of neglecting court rulings and failing to govern according to constitutional principles. He remarked, “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.”
The president specifically blamed Governor Fubara for not doing enough to prevent the crisis, even accusing him of not disowning militant groups that have been causing chaos in the state
Moreover, the Speaker expressed gratitude to the citizens of Rivers State for their patience, prayers, and support during this period of emergency.
Following the turmoil caused by the conflict between the governor and the state legislators, President Tinubu declared a state of emergency on Tuesday, leading to the suspension of Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the state House of Assembly for six months. This decision was aimed at restoring stability in a state grappling with significant political unrest.
In light of the Assembly’s turbulent path towards suspension, Amaewhule urged residents to maintain their composure and extend their cooperation to the Sole Administrator appointed by the president to manage the state’s affairs.
He emphasized, “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.”