More drama as Rivers Assembly accuses Fubara of lying over meeting with lawmakers

A fresh political crisis is unfolding in Rivers State as the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Martin Amaewhule, publicly accused Governor Siminalayi Fubara of making false claims about his engagement with state lawmakers. The dispute intensified after Fubara dismissed reports of a rift and claimed he was yet to meet with legislators because arrangements for such meetings had not been fixed by party leaders and elders. The Speaker countered this narrative, insisting such statements were untrue and risked reopening political tensions in the oil-rich state.

According to Amaewhule, lawmakers have held meetings with Fubara following the lifting of emergency rule in the state, with gatherings arranged by Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, and other leaders in Abuja and Port Harcourt. The Speaker told the media that Fubara’s claim of not meeting with legislators was “unnecessary and unfortunate,” noting that ministers and elders had facilitated dialogue sessions that included the governor and all assembly members. He said the governor’s public comments contradicted these engagements and risked misinforming the public.

The assembly also accused Fubara of sidelining lawmakers and failing to present key financial documents such as the state budget for legislative approval. Amaewhule alleged that the governor has been spending state funds without proper appropriation and awarding contracts without assembly consent. He warned that such actions, if unaddressed, could escalate into a full confrontation between the executive and legislative branches of government in Rivers.

Governor Fubara, on his part, has rejected the notion that he is avoiding lawmakers. In a separate address, he said he made efforts to meet with legislators and called on leaders to schedule these engagements, dismissing claims of refusal as “pure lies.” The governor also stressed his commitment to development projects, highlighting ongoing infrastructure work in the state.

What do you think should be done to calm the political tensions in Rivers State and foster better cooperation between the governor and lawmakers? Comment below and share your thoughts.

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