The ongoing political crisis in Rivers State has taken a new turn as Governor Siminalayi Fubara extended an invitation to the 27 members of the House of Assembly loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, for a crucial meeting.
This development was confirmed in a letter issued on Sunday by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Tammy Danagogo.
The letter, addressed to the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Martin Amaewhule, was titled, “Meeting Between the Governor of Rivers State and the Honourable Members of the Rivers State House of Assembly.”
Supreme Court Judgment Triggers Reconciliation Effort
The meeting, scheduled for Monday, March 10, 2025, comes after Governor Fubara received the Certified True Copy of the Supreme Court judgment.
While the specific details of the court ruling were not disclosed, political analysts believe that it may have reaffirmed the legitimacy of the Assembly members who had been engaged in a protracted battle with the governor over control of the state’s legislature.
According to Dr. Danagogo’s letter, the meeting aims to discuss critical governance issues, including the provision of a suitable space for the lawmakers to hold their sittings, the presentation of the 2025 budget, and other pressing legislative matters.
Content of the Invitation Letter
Part of the statement read:
“I hereby write, in furtherance of His Excellency’s promise stated in my letter dated 5 March 2025, to notify you that His Excellency has received the Supreme Court judgment and has therefore directed me to invite you and your colleagues — the Honourable members of the Rivers State House of Assembly — to a meeting to discuss:
- Provision of a befitting space for the Assembly’s sittings;
- Payment of all outstanding remuneration or allowances of the Honourable members;
- Presentation of the Budget and sundry matters;
- Any other matter(s) as may be necessary, to chart the way forward in the best interest of the State.”
The meeting is expected to take place at 10 a.m. at the Government House, Port Harcourt.
Background to the Political Crisis
The invitation marks a significant shift in the political landscape of Rivers State, which has been embroiled in a heated battle between Governor Fubara and lawmakers aligned with his predecessor and political benefactor, Nyesom Wike.
The power struggle, which began in 2023, escalated when the pro-Wike lawmakers attempted to impeach Fubara, leading to a split in the Assembly.
In response, Governor Fubara had previously declared the seats of the 27 lawmakers vacant and attempted to reconstitute the legislature with loyalists.
However, the Supreme Court’s recent decision appears to have restored legitimacy to the pro-Wike faction, prompting the governor to extend an olive branch in the form of dialogue.
Political Reactions and Implications
The invitation has sparked varied reactions across political circles in Rivers State. Some analysts view it as a strategic move by Governor Fubara to stabilize his administration by reconciling with the Assembly members.
Others, however, believe it is a sign that he has been pressured into making concessions following legal setbacks.
A political observer, Dr. Ifeanyi Ogbue, described the move as “a necessary step towards restoring peace in Rivers State.”
“Governor Fubara cannot govern effectively with a divided legislature. Whether he likes it or not, he needs the cooperation of these lawmakers to pass the state budget and implement policies. This meeting is a crucial step towards ending the hostility between both sides,” Ogbue noted.
However, some critics argue that the governor’s decision to invite the lawmakers suggests that he has been forced into a corner.
“This is a clear indication that Fubara has bowed to pressure.
He tried to sideline the pro-Wike lawmakers, but now, with the Supreme Court ruling, he has no choice but to recognize them,” said a political analyst, who preferred to remain anonymous.
As the meeting approaches, all eyes are on the outcome of discussions between Governor Fubara and the lawmakers. Will this be the beginning of true reconciliation, or will tensions persist?
The governor’s willingness to engage with the legislators could be a turning point in resolving the crisis that has paralyzed governance in the state.
With the 2025 budget presentation on the agenda, it remains to be seen whether both parties will reach an agreement that allows for the smooth functioning of the Rivers State government.
Political stakeholders, party leaders, and concerned citizens will be closely monitoring the outcome of the Monday meeting, as it could shape the political future of Rivers State in the months to come.
