The political turmoil in Rivers State shows no signs of abating. The State House of Assembly, led by Speaker Martin Amaewhule, has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Governor Siminialayi Fubara, demanding the dismissal of all commissioners and the submission of a new list of nominees for screening. However, the state government swiftly dismissed the lawmakers’ demands, accusing them of overstepping their authority and exacerbating the political tension.
Governor Fubara has denied receiving any formal communication from the Amaewhule-led Assembly regarding the ultimatum. Additionally, Deputy Governor Prof. Ngozi Odu has refuted rumors of her resignation, reaffirming her commitment to her role amidst the ongoing crisis.
In a related development, the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) has scheduled fresh local government elections for August 9, 2025, following a Supreme Court ruling. Meanwhile, prominent Niger Delta leader Asari Dokubo has urged President Bola Tinubu, the FCT Minister, and the 27 state lawmakers to abandon any plans to impeach Governor Fubara, warning that such actions could destabilize the state.
The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide has also issued a stern warning, vowing to resist any attempts to undermine Fubara’s administration. The group emphasized that the political crisis has taken on an ethnic dimension, with the Ijaw community determined to protect their interests.
The Amaewhule-led Assembly, in its letter to the governor, criticized the appointment of commissioners without proper legislative screening, citing constitutional violations. They demanded the immediate removal of all unscreened appointees and the submission of a new list for approval within 48 hours.
In response, Rivers State Commissioner for Environment Sydney Tambari dismissed the Assembly’s demands, stating that the commissioners had been screened by the former Speaker, Edison Ehie, who was legally recognized by the courts. Tambari accused the lawmakers of acting beyond their mandate and disregarding the Supreme Court’s directives.
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Deputy Governor Odu’s office also released a statement denying her resignation, describing the rumors as baseless and malicious. The statement reaffirmed her dedication to supporting Governor Fubara in delivering democratic dividends to the people of Rivers State.
The Rivers State Judiciary has denied reports that Chief Judge Justice Simon Amadi has been ordered to proceed on a one-year leave, calling the claims false and misleading. Meanwhile, RSIEC has announced August 9, 2025, as the date for local government elections, in compliance with the Supreme Court’s ruling.
The Assembly has summoned the RSIEC Chairman to explain the conduct of the 2024 local government elections, threatening to issue a warrant for his arrest if he fails to appear. Asari Dokubo has cautioned against any impeachment moves, warning of potential unrest, while the IYC has pledged to resist any efforts to disrupt Fubara’s tenure.
In a separate incident, gunmen attacked supporters of Governor Fubara in Elele Town, Ikwerre Local Government Area, leaving several injured. The Rivers State Police Command has arrested one suspect and recovered a firearm, with investigations ongoing.
The South-South Reawakening Group (SSRG) has called for calm, urging stakeholders to resolve the crisis through dialogue and due process. The group emphasized that violence and threats are counterproductive, especially as Governor Fubara has committed to implementing the Supreme Court’s judgment.
The political crisis in Rivers State continues to escalate, with tensions between the executive and legislative branches reaching a boiling point. As the situation unfolds, stakeholders are calling for restraint and a peaceful resolution to avoid further destabilization.
