Pro-Wike lawmakers in Rivers State demand a formal invitation from Governor Fubara before meeting to discuss issues like the 2025 budget and seating arrangements. Tensions rise over social media invitations, with both lawmakers and former local officials calling for resolution and peace-building efforts between the executive and legislature.
The Rivers State House of Assembly, led by Speaker Martin Amaewhule, has raised concerns over the informal manner in which Governor Siminalayi Fubara invited lawmakers to a meeting, demanding that the invitation be formally issued rather than through social media. The meeting, scheduled for March 10, 2025, was intended to address key state issues such as seating arrangements for the Assembly, outstanding allowances, and the presentation of the 2025 budget.
The invitation was issued by Fubara's administration through the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Tammy Danagogo, but did not sit well with the 27 lawmakers loyal to former Governor Nyesom Wike. They expressed dissatisfaction with the use of social media as the platform for such an important communication. Akuku-Toru Constituency 2 lawmaker Isaiah Opuende criticized the governor for bypassing formal channels, questioning why the invitation was sent on social media when the governor had previously instructed lawmakers to "stay in their lane."
The lawmakers also pointed out that it was time for the legislature to assert its independence. Opuende remarked that the "dey your dey" phase had passed, and now the legislature was ready to determine its course. Former local government chairmen, allies of Wike, further mocked the governor's social media invitation by creating a viral video in which they humorously sang about the situation.
Tensions between the governor and the Assembly have been escalating since the Supreme Court ruled in favor of the Amaewhule-led House of Assembly. The lawmakers had previously requested the presentation of the 2025 budget and the submission of commissioner nominees, but these demands were not acted upon until the Supreme Court’s Certified True Copy (CTC) was received on March 7.
Governor Fubara’s administration responded by sending a letter confirming the meeting and emphasizing the importance of resolving outstanding legislative matters. The invitation was seen as a potential step toward rebuilding relations between the executive and legislature.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, led by the Tony Okocha faction, welcomed the move, stressing the need for peace-building efforts between both government arms. However, challenges remain, with local political figures, particularly pro-Ijaw groups, voicing opposition and warnings of potential unrest if the crisis leads to Fubara’s impeachment.
