In the midst of ongoing political turmoil, the Rivers State House of Assembly has issued a firm directive to Governor Siminalayi Fubara, demanding the resubmission of the 2024 state budget within seven days. The move underscores the deepening divisions within the state’s political landscape, with factions aligned either in support of or against the governor.
Led by Martin Amaewhule, the pro-Wike faction of the State Assembly convened a session where they unanimously agreed on the deadline, signaling their stance against Governor Fubara’s administration. This decision comes amidst a backdrop of heightened tensions and legislative maneuvering following previous attempts to impeach the governor, which resulted in significant political upheaval, including the bombing of the State House of Assembly Complex last year.
Concurrently, another faction of the Assembly, led by Victor Oko-Jumbo, remains aligned with Governor Fubara’s interests. This faction recently conducted its own proceedings, focusing on administrative appointments and maintaining support for the governor’s policies. The split sessions highlight the polarized nature of Rivers State politics, with both sides demonstrating their respective allegiances and strategies amid the ongoing power struggle.
The physical division of Assembly sessions further emphasizes the discord, as pro-Fubara legislators convene in a makeshift chamber within the Government House premises, while pro-Wike lawmakers hold their meetings at the official State Assembly quarters on Aba Road. This spatial separation symbolizes more than just physical distance, reflecting deep ideological and political divides that continue to shape governance and policy-making in the state.
Political observers note that these developments could have significant implications for Rivers State’s political future, impacting governance, legislative processes, and public policy outcomes. As the deadline for the budget resubmission approaches, all eyes are on Governor Fubara’s response and the ensuing political maneuvers within the Assembly, which are likely to further define the state’s political landscape in the months ahead.
