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Tag: Rivers State

  • Women appeal for peace amid Rivers political crisis

    Women appeal for peace amid Rivers political crisis

    The former member of the Rivers House of Assembly, Victoria Nyeche, has appealed to the warring factions in the Rivers political crisis to sheathe their sword and embrace peace.

    Nyeche made the remark on Friday, during the ‘’Rivers We Want” Town Hall Series II meeting organized by the Rivers Peace Initiative, a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), in Port Harcourt.

    She urged the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, the Rivers State Assembly and Gov. Siminalayi Fubara to toe the part of peace.

    She said that the state could not continue to be in the news for a wrong reasons, adding, “peace is everyone’s business, and we all have a role to play, especially the women.

    Nyeche urged the women to embrace their role of peace building, saying that they could not be silent when things were going wrong.

    ‘’So as nation builders, we’re actually peace builders, and we need to start from our homes and teach our children to have values,

    “We need these values to remain with us through life so that we’ll know what we are standing for, and not fall for everything.

    “We are here to remind Rivers people that this crisis is actually our crisis because we are the ones at the receiving end of the political crisis.’’

    She said that the women should not join in the crisis, but should be part of the solution to the crisis, since without peace, there would be no progress which everyone needed in the state.

    “This is not about taking sides with one thing or the other, we are standing for what is right and standing for the people and the interests of Rivers people.

    Nyeche said that after elections, ‘’we should not be talking about politics, we should be talking about governance and it is time for governance.’’
    She said unfortunately, those involved in the political crisis were still seeing politics and not governance.
    She added that two wrongs could not make a right, adding that people had made mistakes in the crisis

    “My stand is, if we don’t put the interest of the Rivers people first and continue to put our interest first, we will continue to have what is seen playing out.

    According to Nyeche, people are not thinking about the state, people are thinking about themselves, so until we begin to think about the state, these things will continue.

    She said that if the interest of the state was taken into consideration, there would have been a middle ground to stop the crisis.

    She, however, appealed to members of the Assembly and the governor as well as the FCT minister to consider the interest of the state so that it could move forward.

    “On every side, people are being hurt and an eye for an eye leads to total blindness, that’s not what we want, we want peace in Rivers state.

    ” I also appeal to them to listen to good advice especially from their wives; most politicians don’t listen or take their wives advice,” Nyeche said.

    In her keynote address, Mrs Nkoyo Toyo, the Former Ambassador of Nigeria to Ethiopia, emphasised on the role of women in peace building, saying that women are the key drive to peace in the society.

    Toyo, who was also the former Member of the House of Representative, advised women not to take side in the crisis rocking the state but mediate for peace among the gladiators.

    She said that women who felt that their voices could be heard by the actors should intervene but avoid being partisan.

    She urged the women to call the state actors, negotiate and make peace among them for the state to move forward.

    Toyo, who is also the Founder, Gender and Development Action(GADA), advised women to actively take part in shaping the Niger Delta Region and Nigeria at large.

    She mentioned some of the key issues causing Rivers state political crisis as quest for resource control, party structure, and selfish interest by the political elites.

    She advised the political gladiators and their supporters to shift ground, come to a roundtable, agree to lose some of their personal interests for the interest of the state.

    Also, Prof. Faith Aminikpo, the former Head, Department of Film and Theatre Art Department, University of Port Harcourt, called for peace in Rivers.
    She said that with the political crisis in the state, the women and children were the most vulnerable and called on the gladiators to sheathe their swords and allow peace in Rivers.

    Earlier, Mr Obinna Ebogidi, the Convener, Rivers Peace Initiative, said that the theme, “Women’s Town Hall: Navigating Political Crisis for Peace, Unity, and Prosperity in Rivers State,” resonated deeply with the challenges and political instability in the state.

    Obinna said that the town hall meeting was organised in collaboration with the Center for Peace and Security Studies, University of Port Harcourt and Super 93.3 FM, Port Harcourt.

    He stated that the meeting which was supported by the Kebetkache Women Development  Resources Centre, and Faraa Coffee Lounge, Port Harcourt, was aimed at finding solutions to the current political crisis rocking Rivers.

  • Just In: Rivers State crisis deepens as lawmakers block Fubara’s entry into Assembly

    Just In: Rivers State crisis deepens as lawmakers block Fubara’s entry into Assembly

    Aleast twenty-seven lawmakers loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on Wednesday barred the Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara from accessing  the State House of Assembly, to present 2025 budget.

    TheNewsGuru reports that the Rivers State governor had arrived at the Assembly early in the day for—the presentation of the 2025 budget, but was met with the gate locked, preventing his entry.

    According to Channels Television, the security personnel at the Assembly complex locked the gates when Governor Fubara arrived with his convoy.

    However, an Assembly staff, who spoke anonymously, claimed there was no formal communication regarding the Governor’s visit.

    “I am not aware that the Governor was scheduled to be at the Assembly today (Wednesday). If such information existed, the Rt. Hon. Speaker would have informed us. As of now, we have no knowledge of his visit,” a source stated.

  • Rivers Ijaw group warns INC not to foment trouble

    Rivers Ijaw group warns INC not to foment trouble

    A group under the umbrella of Rivers Ijaw PeoplesCongress, RIPCO has called on Ijaw National Congress, INC to immediately stop fueling the crisis in Rivers State.

    RIPCO made this call in a prees briefing in PortHacourt at the weekend.

    In a press statement jointly signed by Senator George Thompson Sekibo, leader, Hon Rowland Sekibo, Director General and Hon Erastus Awortu, Secretary .

    The group noted its attention has been drawn to several misguided and inflammatory statements recently made in both the print and electronic media.

    “These statements threaten chaos and unrest in Rivers State, particularly in response to the Supreme Court’s judgment on the ongoing Rivers State crisis.

    ” While RIPCO ordinarily would not engage in public dispute over the opinions of other Ijaw people, we feel compelled to clarify some points and correct the misconceptions being propagated.

    “Firstly, it is important to note that every citizen is constitutionally entitled to express their views and opinions. However, we must remind everyone that when two parties present their case before a court of competent jurisdiction, there are only two possible outcomes: either the judgment will favour one party or the other.

    “The Supreme Court, the highest court in the land, has rendered its decision, bringing to an end the legal conflict that has disrupted the peace and stability of Rivers State for far too long.

    “We express our sincere gratitude to God for this resolution, and we urge all Rivers people to support and encourage the implementation of the judgment as handed down by the court.

    “However, it is deeply troubling that certain individuals, including Professor Benjamin Ogele Okaba, the President of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), among others, have resorted to threats of violence and destruction, including targeting vital oil and gas infrastructure in Rivers State and the wider Niger Delta region.

    “These calls for violence are not only reckless but also profoundly misguided. It is one thing to disagree with a judicial decision; still, it is entirely different to resort to destructive and unlawful actions that threaten the lives and livelihoods of innocent people in the Niger Delta and Nigeria as a whole.

    “We wish to remind those making these unguided utterances that we live in a democratic dispensation governed by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which enshrines the rule of law.

    “The Supreme Court has the final authority to interpret the Constitution and the country’s laws, and its decisions are final and binding on all.

    “Those who call for war, destruction, and civil disobedience should be reminded that Rivers State belongs to all its people, and no individual or group has the right to impose their will through violence and terror.

    “In light of these developments, RIPCO feels it is necessary to provide the following clarifications:
    1. The Supreme Court Judgment is Not Based on Ethnicity
    The Supreme Court’s judgment was not based on ethnic considerations or the notion of the Ijaws opposing another ethnic group. It was rendered in strict accordance with the Constitution and the rule of law. This was a judicial intervention in a legal dispute, not an ethnic or political contest. It is crucial that we all understand and respect the supremacy of the law.

    2. Rivers State is a Multi-Ethnic State
    Contrary to the narrative promoted by certain individuals, Rivers State is not a monolithic Ijaw state.

    “It is a vibrant and diverse multi-ethnic entity, home to the Ijaws, Ikwerre, Ogonis, Oyigbo, Eleme, Ogba, Etche, Egbema, Ndoni, Ekpeya and many others.

    “The diversity among the people in Rivers State is its strength, and we must all embrace this diversity for the collective progress and peace of our state. We should not permit these misguided and selfish self-proclaimed Ijaw leaders to take the law into their own hands simply because the state is currently governed by an Ijaw son who is acting in a similar manner.

    3. The Issue of Impeachment Requires a Political Solution
    The recent fears regarding the impeachment of the Governor of Rivers State, His Excellency Sir Siminalaye Fubara, raised by Professor Benjamin Okaba and his cohorts, are unfounded and premature, as the House of Assembly has not declared such an intention.

    “However, even if the House were to express this, it is not an issue that should be resolved through threats of violence or disruption. Instead, it demands a political resolution that must be sought through constitutional and lawful means. If there are legitimate concerns about governance or the implementation of the Supreme Court’s judgment, these should be addressed within the established legal and political framework, rather than through inflammatory rhetoric and unlawful actions.

    4. The Unconstitutionality of External Interference
    At the onset of this crisis, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, anticipating the outcomes, intervened. At that time, Professor Okaba and his Cohorts criticised the intervention, labeling it unconstitutional.

    The President’s intervention at that time was criticised for overstepping the bounds of the Constitution. We must now ask: Would it be constitutionally appropriate for the President to intervene again in a matter where the Supreme Court, an independent branch of government, has already made its final decision?

    “It is essential for those advocating for the President’s intervention to reverse or override the Supreme Court’s ruling to understand that it would be a direct challenge to the independence of the judiciary and the rule of law.

    5. Suppose the Supreme Court Judgment had Favoured Governor Sim Fubara
    It is our belief that if the Supreme Court judgment had favoured the Governor and his team, the Rt. Hon. Martin Amaewhule and his team would have succumbed to wise counsel and vacated their seats to allow peace and stability reign in the state. Thus, Governor Sim Fubara attempt at further escalating the crisis is an executive rascality beyond the imaginations of wise counsel.

    Governor Siminalaye Fubara should note again that the decision of the Supreme Court is final and binding.

    6. Professor Benjamin Okaba Should Advise Governor Fubara to Implement the Judgment and Not to Disrupt the Peace of Rivers State Further
    In the spirit of peace and stability, we, members of the Rivers Ijaw Peoples’ Congress and fellow Ijaw brothers with Professor Benjamin Okaba do implore him and his Co-travellers to advise His Excellency Governor Sir Siminalaye
    Fubara to promptly implement the Supreme Court’s judgment.

    Only through the full execution of the court’s decision can peace and order be restored in Rivers State. The people of Rivers State deserve nothing less than the swift and transparent implementation of the rule of law.

    7. The General Public Is to Note That Professor Benjamin Okaba and His Co-Travellers Are Not Speaking for all Rivers State Ijaw People .

    The general public is invited to note that Professor Benjamin Okaba and his associates, who are threatening with hell and brimstone in Rivers State, do not speak for all Rivers Ijaw people, as there is no other formidable Ijaw group besides the Rivers Ijaw People’s Congress. Therefore, the public is advised to disregard these misguided and provocative remarks and comments from them.

    8. RIPCO Supports the Supreme Court Judgment
    As a responsible and law-abiding organisation, the Rivers Ijaw Peoples’
    Congress stands firm in supporting the Supreme Court’s judgment. We believe that this judgment is a critical step towards bringing stability, peace, and justice to Rivers State.

    We commend the Supreme Court for its wisdom in resolving this matter, and we encourage all citizens to accept the judgment and work together for the betterment of our state.

    9. RIPCO Congratulates the Speaker and twenty-six members of the Rivers State House of Assembly
    We also wish to congratulate the Rt. Hon. Martin Chike Amaewhule, DSSRS, the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, and all twenty-six members of the Assembly for their unwavering dedication to upholding the law and promoting peace in our state. Their commitment to governance and the rule of law is commendable, and we stand with them in their efforts to ensure the full implementation of the Supreme Court’s judgment.

    10. We Are Committed to the Security and Safety of Our Commonwealth As law-abiding citizens of Nigeria, the members of RIPCO are committed to safeguarding the peace, stability, and prosperity of our state and country. We will continue to support the federal government’s initiatives to maintain law and order. We, the Rivers Ijaw Peoples’ Congress members will not hesitate to stand with the security agencies to fish out any individuals or groups that aim to undermine our collective well-being through violence, illegal activities, or attempts to damage our nation’s oil and gas infrastructure.

    In conclusion, we urge all well-meaning Rivers people to remain calm, law abiding, and supportive of the democratic process. The Supreme Court has spoken, and it is our duty as citizens to respect its decision. We must all work together for the continued development and unity of Rivers State, rejecting any actions that seek to divide us or bring harm to our communities.

  • Fubara assures adequate response to fire outbreak in Rivers

    Fubara assures adequate response to fire outbreak in Rivers

    Governor Siminalayi Fubara of River State has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to quick response to fire outbreak and emergencies in the state to save lives and property.

    Fubara made the remark during the inauguration of the Rivers State Fire Service, Borokiri Sub-Station at the Old Port Harcourt Township on Thursday.

    The governor stated that fire service stations were essential components of critical services that must be provided by any government for its people as a proof of commitment to their safety.

    Fubara stated that the Borokiri Sub-Station would serve as a local-level fire disaster management resource centre to provide quick response to emergencies and ensure protection of lives, property, and the environment.

    He said that the inauguration of the station aligned with the government statutory responsibility to the citizenry which ‘’is not anything to advertise.’’

    He added that ordinarily, government meeting up with its responsibility should not call for special attention.

    Fubara said that due to the turn of events in the society, every achievement was showcased for the ‘’public to know that the government is working.’’

    According to him, some persons will commission borehole, some will commission all sorts of things, and they do adverts for it.

    ‘’But for us, we have chosen to showcase to the world the vital and most needed items of service as a government.’’

    He recalled that few days ago, he unveiled the modernised and remodelled Headquarters of the state Fire Service to signal the restoration of stable and regular response to fire disasters across the state.

    “We had cases of fire outbreak, from time to time, and we have never adequately responded to them.

    “I strongly believe that after this minute, whatever that would happen, provided it is within the power and jurisdiction of this station, it would be combated adequately,” he said.

    Fubara stated that seeing the residents overwhelmed with joy and excitement, his administration would remain resolute, and continue to work to better the lives of all residents of the state.

    Also Dr Abiye Sekibo, a former Minister of Transport, while inaugurating the station, said that the project reflected purposeful leadership that prioritised the wellbeing of the people.

    Sekibo noted the massive rehabilitation work done on the long abandoned fire station, and commended Fubara for the achievement, saying that the project is a state-of-the-art fire station.

    He also said that ‘’Fubara carries the collective hope and vision of all Rivers people who are resolute and determined to continue to support him.

    “The people-oriented projects achievements within your short time in office as the governor are the more reason why President Bola Tinubu should also support you.

    “This is the first time in 24 years, the Ijaw nation, which is domiciled in more than eight local governments of Rivers, now have the opportunity of governing the state and enjoying massive support of the people.

    “This governor, at a time when our funds are seized, made sure that there was no problem in this state, and that essential services continued; he didn’t try to create problems for the Federal Government.’’

    Sekibo stated that Rivers people would continue to support President Bola Tinubu-led government under the leadership of Gov. Fubara.

    According to him, the governor has convinced us that the place to be is to be with our President; so, Mr President, we stand with you.

    “We stand with you because that is the right thing to do; the election delivered you as our President, and so, we stand with you.

    “The election also delivered our governor, our son, and we stand with him,” Sekibo said.

    Sekibo advised Rivers people, who felt demoralised by the Supreme Court judgment, to brace up and give unalloyed support to Fubara, who had assured he would obey the ruling to the latter.

    In his remarks, Dr Samuel Anya, the Rivers Commissioner for Special Duties, said the Fire Service, Borokiri Sub-Station was abandoned for years.

    He added that Fubara  rehabilitated the structures, provided necessary materials, equipment and fire trucks to serve the people better and guarantee their safety.

  • Gov Fubara appoints new VC for Rivers State University

    Gov Fubara appoints new VC for Rivers State University

    Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has approved the appointment of Prof. Isaac Zeb-Obipi, as the new Vice Chancellor (VC) of the Rivers State University, Nkpolu-Oroworukwo, Port Harcourt.

    Governor Fubara made the known in a special government announcement, signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Tammy Danagogo in Port Harcourt on Thursday.

    He said that the appointment was with immediate effect.

    The new VC takes over from Prof. Nlerum Okogbule who was appointed as the VC by the former governor, Nyesom Wike  in March 5, 202o.

    Zeb-Obipi, is a Professor of Organisational Behaviour and Human Resource Management and was the Director of Information and Communication Technology Centre of the state university before his appointment.

  • Rivers political crises: Gunmen open fire on peaceful assembly, 4 injured

    Rivers political crises: Gunmen open fire on peaceful assembly, 4 injured

    Gunmen on Wednesday opened fire on a peaceful gathering of youths believed to be supporters of Governor Siminalayi Fubara in Elele, Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers.

    The youths had reportedly assembled at a roundabout in Elele to express solidarity with Fubara when the attack occurred, further escalating political tensions in the state.

    The incident follows a 48-hour ultimatum issued to Fubara by the Martin Amaewhule-led state Assembly to re-represent the 2025 Appropriation Bill, which expires on March 5.

    Speaking with NAN via telephone, an eyewitness, identified as Nwokoro, alleged that the attack was carried out by a senior local vigilante commander in the area.

    According to him, the commander, popularly known as ‘Fucking Naira,’ appeared suddenly and opened fire on the supporters of Gov. Fubara in Elele Town.

    “He shot about 14 people, all of whom sustained multiple gunshot wounds and were taken to Madonna University Hospital in Elele for treatment,” the eyewitness reported.

    Nwokoro alleged that the shooter is a factional leader of a prominent political party and a staunch supporter of a well-known politician in the state.

    He alleged that the vigilante commander also threatened to continue attacking supporters of the governor, and called on security agencies to take swift action to arrest him, and ensure his prosecution.

    Confirming the incident, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, spokesperson for the Police Command in Rivers, stated that only four persons sustained gunshot wounds during the attack.

    She explained that the attack took place after a patrol team from Elele Division, led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), arrived at Elele Roundabout to address the unlawful assembly.

    “While officers were attempting to address the crowd, an unidentified assailant hiding nearby opened fire, resulting in multiple injuries.

    “As at the time of this report, only four individuals have been confirmed injured,” Iringe-Koko stated.

    She added that after the shooting, the armed assailants attempted to flee, but one was apprehended by the police.

    Iringe-Koko said that a single-barrel gun was recovered from the suspect.

    “The injured victims were immediately taken to various hospitals in Elele for urgent medical treatment. A manhunt is currently underway for the perpetrators who escaped,” she said.

    Iringe-Koko revealed that some of the assailants were identified as members of the local vigilante group known as the Obio/Akpor Security Planning and Advisory Committee (OSPAC).

    The police spokesperson stated that the apprehended suspect would be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation.

    She assured that all those involved in the attack would be tracked down and brought to justice.

  • Rivers: LG Chairmen sacked under Wike vow to take over councils

    Rivers: LG Chairmen sacked under Wike vow to take over councils

    The former Local Government (LG) Chairmen in Rivers who were sacked in 2015 under Governor Nyesom Wike administration have vowed to return to take over LG councils in the 23 local government.

    The former Chairman of Andoni Local Government Area (LGA), Benson Imie, disclosed this on behalf of the 23 LGAs Chairmen on Tuesday in a briefing to newsmen in Port Harcourt.

    He recalled that they were elected in an election conducted by Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) on May 23, 2015 at the tail of former Gov. Chibuike Amaechi’s administration.

    He said that his predecessor, Wike, sacked them on assumption of office, adding that a Federal High Court in its judgement on July 9, 2015 nullified the matter while voiding the 2015 LG elections.

    Imie further said that after 10 years, an Appeal Court in Port harcourt, on Feb, 28, 2025 upturned the decision of the Federal High Court, ruling that the 2015 election was without encumbrances.

    He explained that the Appeal Court, in Suit No, CA/PH/172?2024 (Hon. Augustine P. NGO & 22 Ors v. Peoples Democratic Party & Ors) nullified and set aside the Federal High Court judgement.

    According to him, the judgement was set aside on grounds of violent breach and flagrant abuse of the appellants’ right to fair hearing.

    He said that the judgement recognised that appellants’ right to fair hearing was jealously protected and preserved under Section 36 of the Constitution of the Federal republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended);

    “And the plethora of case laws, holding that the election of the appellants was without any legal encumbrances,” he said.

    Imie said that with the Supreme Court’s Friday judgement, sacking that Oct. 5, 2024, they were the rightfully elected LG Chairmen, Vice Chairmen and councillors.

    In his remarks, Reginald Ukwuoma, former Chairman of Etche LGA, said that they did not need to be sworn into office or take any oath of office as they have done all that in 2015.

    “At this moment, we will wait to receive the Certified True Copies of the Appeal Court and the  Supreme Court judgements, then, we will know when to resume office,” he said.

  • Fubara vows governance will prevail despite opposition

    Fubara vows governance will prevail despite opposition

    Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has vowed that governance will prevail despite the opposition in the State.

    Fubara made the remark while inaugurating the Government House Staff Quarters newly built by his administration in Port Harcourt on Monday.

    According to him, the course of governance is irreversible despite the unceasing antagonism against his administration; victory is assured for the state.

    He noted the news of the judgment of the supreme court dampened the spirit of most Rivers people but urged them to brace up as ‘’what is ahead is more than what has happened.’’

    Fubara acknowledged that the indigenes might have felt disturbed by the Apex Court’s pronouncements, but advised them to realise that the will of God would be accomplished.

    “Our back is not on anybody; it is on God. I want to thank you for your support. And I assure you that, if there is one person on this planet earth that will continue to stand by you, I will be that person.

    He assured the people that he would lead with integrity, honour, and respect with the knowledge that when he left, he would have a question to answer even if it was 20-30 year later.

    According to him, I want to be proud to defend my position, so, I thank you and assure you that I will not disappoint you.

    The governor, however, said that he had never subscribed to violence or ask people to indulge in lawless acts, and warned that his administration would not ignore anyone planning to unleash violence in the state.

    “I am not scared of anything, the worse that will happen is for me to leave the office. Am I leaving the earth?  Is it going to stop me from existing?”

    Fubara stated that the interest of the state remained his top priority, emphasising that he would not hesitate to pay the supreme price, if it was so required.

    He also stated that he drew his strength from the Supreme God and all Rivers people who loved the state, and had been interested in its progress and peace.

    He advised them to know that ‘’there is honour and glory in fighting gallantly, being on the side of truth.’’

    Fubara, however, expressed delight that his administration was foresighted to have conceived the project, executed it, and dedicating it to the glory of God for use by the workers.

    He stated that the staff quarters and other projects lined up for inauguration were proof against what had been said in some quarters about good governance on course in the state.

    Fubara assured the elders of the state that he would not disappoint their expectations of providing good governance to the state.

    In his remarks, Chief of Staff, Government House, Edison Ehie commended the governor for the construction of the project, and also ‘’tastefully’’ furnishing it to make life comfortable for workers.

    The Permanent Secretary to state government, Mr Chukwuma Augustine, said that the project was awarded on June 6, 2024 to Monier Construction Company (MCC).

    Augustine said that with the project, the government staff would have a more comfortable accommodation that would impact positively on their productivity.

    He said that the new quarters has 6 of two bedroom, 11 of one bedroom, 11 of Boys Quarters, Hostel A of 32 bed spaces, and Hostel B of 30 bed spaces.

    Augustine said that the building had features of canteen, cafeteria, gymnasium – fitness centre for exercises, mini basketball court, a sound-proof power generating plant, and water tank.

    According to him, the contract was completed, and the  contract sum fully paid.

  • Rivers Assembly gives Gov Fubara 48 hours to re-present 2025 budget

    Rivers Assembly gives Gov Fubara 48 hours to re-present 2025 budget

    The Rivers State House of Assembly has written to Governor Siminalayi Fubara, urging him to re-present the 2025 Appropriation Bill of the State within 48 hours.

    The House made this known in a five-point resolution by Mr Martin Amaewhule-led Rivers State House of Assembly at the plenary on Monday in Port-Harcourt.

    The Amaewhule-led members of the assembly resumed on March 4, following a Supreme Court order on Feb. 28, which stopped federal allocations to Rivers until the state government recognised the Amaewhule-led members of the assembly.

    By the Supreme Court directive, N1.1 trillion appropriation bill presented by a rival Speaker, Victor Oko-Jumbo to the governor for assent in January was also nullified.

    Amaewhule said the governor’s quick response to the resolution was urgent to enable the state tackle the impending financial crisis following the halt of statutory federal allocations to the state by the Supreme Court.

    The sitting also deliberated on the annulled local government election by the Supreme Court.

    The letter to the governor read in part;

    ”That pursuant to the order of the Supreme Court in suit no: SC/CV/1174/2024 for the stoppage of statutory federal allocations to the Rivers government and halting spending from the Consolidated Revenue Fund of the state, pending the passage of an Appropriation Bill.

    ”You are requested to present the 2025 appropriation bill to the House in line with the provisions of the 1999 Constitution as amended.

    “That the House expects you to present the 2025 Appropriation Bill within 48 hours.”

    The House, also in its letter, announced readiness to commence the process of amending the Rivers Local Government Law and the State Independent Electoral Commission law to pave way for fresh local government elections.

    The House also drew his attention to the 2023 amendment to the constitution, which prohibited Heads of Local Government Administrators (HLGAs) or individuals other than democratically elected persons to head local government administration.

    Recall Gov. Fubara, in response to the nullification of the local government election by the Supreme court, has ordered HLGAs in the 23 local government areas to immediately assume office as administrators of the local councils.

  • BREAKING: Rivers to conduct fresh election for 23 LG councils

    BREAKING: Rivers to conduct fresh election for 23 LG councils

    Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has disclosed that the State will conduct fresh elections for the 23 local government areas in the State.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports Governor Fubara disclosed this in a statewide broadcast on Sunday.

    Recall that Rivers had earlier conducted election for local government areas in the State but was recently annulled by the Supreme Court.

    Fubara disclosed that the State is awaiting the certified true copy of the Supreme Court judgements to know the next steps to take.

    The Governor revealed he has directed the Heads of Local Government Administration to immediately take over the administration of the 23 local government councils pending the conduct of fresh elections by the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission.

    The text of the broadcast reads in full below: “My dear people of Rivers State,

    “We are all aware of the recent Supreme Court judgments and pronouncements regarding aspects of the lingering political disputes in our dear State.

    “Although we disagree with the judgments, we are bound to obey the orders made therein as a law-abiding government.

    “Since inception, we have conducted the affairs of government within the framework of our Constitution, due process and the rule of law.

    “While we are not above mistakes because we are humans, we believe that we have not, as a government, done anything deliberately to trample on the rule of law or the hallowed principles of constitutional governance.

    “Accordingly, I have had a meeting with my team of lawyers, and they have assured me that the certified true copy of the judgements may be available to them by Friday, 7th March, 2025.

    “I assure you that upon the receipt of certified judgements, we shall study their ramifications and implement them without reservations to move the State forward.

    “Furthermore, given the outlawing of caretaker arrangements in the local government system, I hereby direct the Heads of Local Government Administration to immediately take over the administration of the 23 local government councils pending the conduct of fresh elections by the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission.

    “I further direct the outgoing local government chairmen to formally hand over the levers of power to the Heads of Local Government Administration by Monday, 3rd March, 2025.

    “Although our dear State seems to be back in trying times, I urge everyone to remain calm and peacefully go about with their legitimate daily activities as we continue to do everything in our power to advance our responsibilities to the citizens.

    “Thank you and may God bless Rivers State”.