Rivers State faces an escalating political crisis as ex-LG chairpersons defy police orders to protest Governor Fubara's directive. Demonstrations across LGA secretariats highlight the power struggle between Fubara and former governor Wike. Recent legislative actions and court rulings complicate the situation, with assembly members opposing potential caretaker appointments.
The political crisis in Rivers State has intensified as former local government chairpersons from 21 of the 23 LGAs staged protests, defying police orders and challenging Governor Siminalayi Fubara's recent directive.
Last week, Governor Fubara instructed heads of local government administration to assume control of the 23 council areas following the end of the chairpersons' three-year tenure. This move was met with resistance as some former chairpersons attempted to resume duties, only to be driven away by local youths.
The situation has led to widespread protests across LGA secretariats, with police firing shots to disperse crowds. All 23 LG secretariats have since been barricaded by law enforcement.
The unrest highlights the ongoing power struggle between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. In Asari-Toru LGA, former chairman Onengiyeofori George led a march through Buguma, brandishing posters supporting Wike and criticizing Fubara's actions.
These protests occurred despite a police advisory against such gatherings. The Rivers police command had previously asked the Nigerian Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) to cancel planned demonstrations, citing intelligence about potential infiltration.
The crisis is further complicated by recent legislative actions. In April, the Rivers assembly passed a local government amendment bill, allowing for the extension of LGA chairpersons' tenures. Governor Fubara refused to assent, but the assembly overrode his decision. A subsequent court judgment nullified the amendment, with an appeal pending.
As tensions rise, the 27 House of assembly members have vowed to resist any attempts by Fubara to install caretaker chairpersons in the LGAs, further deepening the political divide in Rivers State.
