Amid heightened political tension and threats of impeachment, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has made a bold declaration, stating that he is prepared to sacrifice his position—even pay the “supreme price”—to protect the interests of Rivers people from what he described as “anti-democratic forces.”
Speaking on Monday at the inauguration of the newly reconstructed Rivers State Government House Staff Quarters in Port Harcourt, Governor Fubara assured the people that governance in the state would remain on course despite mounting opposition. He vowed to lead with integrity and accountability.
“I assure you that I will lead you with honour, I will lead you with respect, and I will lead you with integrity, knowing that when I leave here, I would have questions to answer if I am called upon 20–30 years from today,” he stated. “I want to be proud to defend my position. So, I thank you and assure you that I will not disappoint you.”
The governor acknowledged that the recent Supreme Court judgment had demoralized many Rivers residents but urged them to remain steadfast. He insisted that no amount of political pressure would derail his commitment to the state’s development.
Fubara also took a strong stance against what he perceives as deliberate efforts to destabilize Rivers State. While emphasizing that he does not condone violence, he warned that his administration would not sit idly by while external forces attempted to plunge the state into chaos.
“No matter how we’ve been fooled in this state, it has gotten to a point when the people have to decide to take their destinies in their hands,” he declared. “Since I don’t subscribe to violence, when the time comes for us to take a decision, I will lead the course for that decision.”
He further dismissed fears surrounding his impeachment, stating that he was not afraid of losing his position. “Let me say it again: I am not scared of anything. The worst that will happen is for me to leave office. Am I leaving the earth? Is it going to stop me from existing?” Fubara asked rhetorically. “So, I am not even bothered about that. But the right thing must be done, and must be said when the opportunity is given to us.”
Meanwhile, the crisis between the governor and the Rivers State House of Assembly escalated further as the Assembly, led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, issued a 48-hour ultimatum for Fubara to present the 2025 budget.
The ultimatum was issued during the Assembly’s 130th legislative session on Monday. The lawmakers referenced the Supreme Court’s February 28 judgment, which halted federal allocations to Rivers State pending the passage of an Appropriation Bill. They demanded that the governor comply with the ruling without delay.
“You are requested to present the 2025 Appropriation Bill to the House in line with the provisions of the 1999 Constitution as amended. The House expects you to present the 2025 Appropriation Bill within 48 hours,” the letter signed by Speaker Amaewhule stated.
The Supreme Court had also nullified the October 5, 2024, local government elections in Rivers State due to non-compliance with the Electoral Act. Consequently, the Assembly announced plans to amend relevant electoral laws to enable fresh elections.
“That since the Supreme Court in the judgment delivered in Suit no.: SC/CV/1105/2024 nullified the purported Rivers State Local Government Elections of 5th October 2024 for non-compliance with the Electoral Act, the House would soon commence the process of amending the Rivers State Local Government Law No. 5 of 2018 and the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission Law No. 2 of 2018,” the statement read.
Additionally, the lawmakers reminded Fubara of constitutional provisions prohibiting the appointment of unelected administrators to oversee local governments. They urged him to ensure compliance with the Supreme Court’s ruling on local government administration.
Speaker Amaewhule’s letter to the governor also mentioned that the House would commence a 12-week recess from March 7 but assured that its standing committees would continue performing their statutory duties.
“Please be informed that our resolutions are geared towards a quick fix to the current financial quagmire occasioned by the absence of an Appropriation Law for Rivers State. We do not want Rivers State people to suffer,” the Assembly stated. “We, therefore, urge you to act fast and do the needful in the best interest of the good people of Rivers State.”
The ongoing political turmoil in Rivers State has attracted national attention, with observers closely watching how the crisis will unfold. Many analysts believe that the power struggle between Governor Fubara and the House of Assembly could determine the state’s political landscape in the coming months.
As tensions escalate, the governor remains defiant, urging the people of Rivers to stand strong. “Be strong, don’t be perturbed. I assure you, at the right time, you will hear from us,” he reassured his supporters.
With the 48-hour deadline approaching, all eyes are on Governor Fubara’s next move and whether he will yield to the Assembly’s demands or continue his resistance against what he perceives as political intimidation.
Peace OdekunleMarch 3, 20253 Mins read
