The Caretaker Committee Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, Chief Tony Okocha, alleged Governor Similanayi Fubara's involvement in a clandestine scheme to procure interim orders from judges. These orders, Okocha claims, are intended to halt the implementation of laws vetoed by the State House of Assembly, potentially undermining its legitimacy.
The controversy stems from a recent decision by the assembly to reject the enactment of the Rivers State House of Assembly (RSHA) Service Commission Law, citing procedural irregularities. Despite sending the required notice of the amendment to Governor Fubara for his assent, the assembly observed that the constitutionally mandated 30-day period had elapsed without action from the governor.
Speaking at a press conference in Port Harcourt, Okocha asserted that Fubara is orchestrating a plot to obtain interim orders declaring the current composition of the assembly, led by Hon. Martin Amaehwule, as illegal. Furthermore, Okocha alleged that Fubara intends to exploit these orders to appoint caretaker committee chairmen for local government areas in the state.
"We cannot allow the governor to trample upon the integrity of our assembly and undermine the democratic process," Okocha emphasized. He vowed to oppose any attempts to subvert the rule of law and called upon the National Judicial Council to investigate Fubara's alleged interference with the judiciary.
In response, Rivers State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Joe Johnson, vehemently denied the allegations, asserting that Governor Fubara does not engage in illicit activities. Johnson reassured the public that any legal actions pursued by the governor would adhere to due process and transparency.
