Governor Siminalayi Fubara made a heartfelt appeal on Thursday to the members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, urging them to prioritize the welfare of the state’s citizens and to seek peaceful resolutions to the ongoing political stalemate in the South-South region.
“It is crucial at this juncture that we all advocate for peace,” Fubara stated during the inauguration of several projects in the Okrika Local Government Area.
The governor emphasized the necessity of peace for effective governance and urged all political figures who are currently dissatisfied to move past previous grievances and focus on the full execution of the Supreme Court’s decisions issued on February 28, 2025.
“The Supreme Court has rendered its judgment, and we have no choice but to comply. By the grace of God, we have initiated the necessary processes,” he remarked.
“We implore all parties involved to consider the interests of Rivers State. Our primary obligation to this state is to foster peace and development.”
“I am always available for discussions aimed at achieving total peace in our state, as effective governance requires a foundation of tranquility,” the governor added.
The ongoing conflict between the Wike-supported House of Assembly and Fubara shows no signs of resolution, as the governor was denied entry to the Assembly Quarters on Wednesday when he attempted to present the state’s 2025 Budget, as required by the House following the Supreme Court ruling.
Fubara indicated that he had informed Speaker Martins Amaewhule of his visit, but the Assembly claimed it had not received any notification regarding this matter.
Amidst the unfolding situation in the South-South state, Fubara’s former mentor and predecessor, Nyesom Wike, commented during a media briefing in Abuja that there would be no issue if the lawmakers chose to impeach Fubara for alleged offenses, including the prolonged withholding of their salaries.
In its ruling, the Supreme Court acknowledged Amaewhule as the Speaker of the House and prohibited the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and other entities from disbursing funds to the Rivers State Government until it rectifies what the court termed as blatant noncompliance with court orders.
Furthermore, the Supreme Court deemed the local government election held in the state on October 5, 2024, to be invalid and mandated the governor to organize a new election, in addition to resubmitting the 2025 Budget to the House led by Amaewhule.
