Governor Fubara’s Denied Access to Assembly Highlights Political Tensions in Rivers State
Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State reported being denied access to the assembly quarters where he aimed to present the 2025 budget. Despite prior communication with lawmakers, led by Speaker Martin Amaewhule, he was turned away, highlighting the ongoing tensions stemming from his rivalry with former Governor Nyesom Wike. Fubara committed to following the Supreme Court’s orders and emphasized the need for responsible governance.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State recently disclosed that he was denied entry to the state assembly quarters, where he intended to present the 2025 budget to lawmakers led by Speaker Martin Amaewhule. The assembly comprises 27 members who are aligned with former Governor Nyesom Wike. This incident highlights the ongoing political feud in the state, which has significantly influenced the assembly’s dynamics.
In a public address following the denied access, Governor Fubara expressed his surprise at being turned away, emphasizing that he had communicated his visit in advance. He stated, “For that reason, I made all frantic efforts to reach the Speaker… notifying them that I will be coming by 10 O’clock this morning to present the budget…” He expressed disappointment at the miscommunication surrounding his efforts.
The governor also emphasized the necessity for cooperation in line with a recent Supreme Court ruling, which requires the budget to be presented. He stated, “I feel it is an opportunity here where everybody can hear from me and understand the situation that we are facing.”
Furthermore, Mr. Fubara remarked on the nature of power, asserting his intent to wield it responsibly and without abuse. He conveyed, “What is most important is what we do with the power… I do not intend to abuse my powers… Because power, when you abuse it, is what leads to this kind of situation.”
The political rivalry between Mr. Fubara and Mr. Wike has created a division among the assembly’s members, with significant implications for governance in Rivers State. Following the Supreme Court’s reinstatement of key assembly officials, the assembly dynamics have shifted, culminating in separate sessions held by pro-Wike and pro-Fubara factions. The Supreme Court’s ruling ordered Governor Fubara to present the budget within a specific timeframe, which further complicates the existing political landscape.
Leading up to this incident, Governor Fubara had formally invited the lawmakers to discuss important legislative matters, although this invitation was rejected. Despite the political tensions and challenges he faces, the governor remains committed to following judicial directives, including the Supreme Court ruling that calls for the budget’s presentation to lawmakers.
In summary, Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s experience of being barred entry to the assembly quarters underscores the entrenched political rivalry in Rivers State, particularly between his faction and that of former Governor Wike. Despite his prior efforts to communicate his intentions, he faced opposition, prompting concerns over governance and cooperation within the assembly. Governor Fubara’s commitment to responsible use of power and adherence to the Supreme Court’s directives remains central to navigating the ongoing political tensions in the state.
Original Source: www.premiumtimesng.com
