A coalition of opposition legislators has pledged to oppose an alleged covert scheme by members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, who are aligned with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike, aimed at impeaching Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
During a press conference held on Wednesday at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja, their spokesperson, Hon. Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere, raised concerns regarding a purported new initiative by the pro-Wike faction to destabilize Rivers State, weaken the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), interfere with local government elections, and obstruct the passage of the 2025 budget as mandated by the Supreme Court.
The lawmakers warned the public about attempts by members of the Rivers State House of Assembly to evade the receipt of the 2025 budget as ordered by the Supreme Court and to unlawfully amend local government laws to prevent the local government elections, asserting that such actions will not hinder governance.
They indicated that the pro-Wike legislators intend to modify the local government law to obstruct the election process, thereby allowing former local government chairpersons, whose terms have ended, to reclaim their positions.
The coalition reassured the citizens of Rivers State that the elections will proceed as scheduled by the electoral authorities, asserting that no unlawful amendments will impede the electoral process.
Additionally, they alleged a scheme to prevent the main opposition party, the PDP, from conducting its convention, thereby hindering its ability to form a coalition for the selection of a presidential candidate.
In their remarks, the lawmakers commended Governor Siminalayi Fubara for his compliance with the Supreme Court ruling, despite provocations and the breach of the peace accord by Wike. They expressed gratitude to Nigerians who have defended democracy, encouraging them to remain steadfast in their commitment to democratic principles.
The coalition stated, “It is imperative for individuals to remain steadfast. We are nearing the conclusion, which explains the increasing frustrations and outbursts—people are beginning to assert themselves. We are pleased to observe that members of the National Working Committee (NWC) and our governors are taking a stand to put an end to the chaos caused by politically entitled individuals who have faced no opposition.
“At this point, I would like to commend a member of the opposition, Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State. It is widely recognized that the pro-Wike legislators lost their positions when they defected—this was evident to all. However, the Supreme Court ruled that Governor Fubara must acknowledge these lawmakers who left the party under which they were elected.
“Not everyone possesses the courage or the spirit of reconciliation that Fubara has demonstrated. He has surprised many of us. As a true democrat, he embraced the court’s ruling and began to implement it without delay.
“Nyesom Wike’s interests are not centered on peace or progress; rather, they revolve around control. If he is not the one in charge of the state, he believes that no actions should be taken. Thus, the ongoing legal disputes regarding local government and Assembly members serve merely as distractions to further his agenda, which is to incite conflict.
“An election has been scheduled for August 9th. While the local populace prepares for the elections mandated by the Supreme Court, the Wike faction is actively seeking an injunction to halt the election—similar to their previous attempts to amend local government laws to obstruct the electoral process.
“He is now attempting to reinstate former chairpersons whose terms have expired. This is sheer madness! His objective is to regain control over the governance structure.”
The election is set to proceed; however, it is crucial to inform you that there are efforts underway to seek a court injunction aimed at halting a legitimate election mandated by the Supreme Court. There are clandestine attempts to modify the local government law during the election period to reinstate former local government chairpersons who departed years ago.
We commend Governor Fubara for adhering to the court’s ruling concerning the budget presentation. He made an effort to engage with members of the House of Assembly for a meeting—an initiative that his predecessor, Wike, did not undertake. He invited them to discuss solutions for progress, yet they chose to boycott the meeting and declined to participate. Who are they?! The state will not descend into chaos, and we will not permit them to undermine a state that rightfully belongs to our party.
The Governor has once again sent a letter regarding the presentation of the Rivers State 2025 budget, which was duly delivered. He attempted to contact the Speaker multiple times by phone, but his calls went unanswered. This behavior reveals their true intentions—all they desire is disorder; they wish to inflict suffering upon the people of Rivers.
From the outset, Wike has been the instigator. We commend Governor Fubara for his patience and commitment to governance, as he has continued to steer the administration effectively over the past four days, despite ongoing provocations.
