Port Harcourt, Nigeria – Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, was reportedly locked out of the State House of Assembly on Tuesday, as the political crisis between the governor and lawmakers escalates. The incident occurred when Fubara attempted to address the Assembly following a series of disagreements over budget approvals and governance issues.
The lockout has further deepened the political rift in Rivers State, with supporters of the governor and the lawmakers trading accusations and blame.
---
Details of the Incident
Governor Fubara arrived at the Rivers State House of Assembly complex on Tuesday morning to address the lawmakers on the state’s budget and other pressing issues. However, he was denied entry by security personnel, who claimed they were acting on the orders of the Speaker of the House.
The governor’s aides described the incident as a deliberate attempt to humiliate Fubara and undermine his authority.
“This is a clear case of political sabotage. The governor was invited to address the Assembly, only to be locked out. This is unacceptable and a slap on the face of democracy,” said a member of the governor’s team.
---
Lawmakers’ Response
The Rivers State House of Assembly, led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, has denied any wrongdoing, stating that the governor’s visit was not scheduled and that proper protocols were not followed.
“The governor’s visit was not on the agenda for the day, and we were not informed in advance. The security personnel acted within their mandate to maintain order in the Assembly,” said a spokesperson for the House.
The lawmakers also accused Fubara of trying to intimidate them and interfere with the legislative process.
---
Background of the Crisis
The lockout incident is the latest development in the ongoing political crisis between Governor Fubara and the Rivers State House of Assembly. The crisis began shortly after Fubara assumed office in 2023, with the lawmakers accusing him of sidelining them in key decisions and failing to consult them on critical issues.
The rift has led to a series of confrontations, including the recent threat by the Assembly to impeach the governor if he fails to address their concerns.
---
Reactions from Stakeholders
The incident has sparked widespread reactions from political stakeholders and residents of Rivers State. While some have condemned the lawmakers’ actions, others have blamed the governor for the escalating crisis.
“Locking out the governor is a disgraceful act that undermines the principles of democracy. The lawmakers should focus on their constitutional duties instead of engaging in political witch-hunts,” said a civil rights activist.
On the other hand, supporters of the Assembly have accused Fubara of provoking the crisis by refusing to work with the lawmakers.
---
Calls for Peace and Dialogue
Amid the escalating crisis, civil society organizations and stakeholders have called for peace and dialogue to resolve the differences between the governor and the lawmakers.
“The political crisis in Rivers State is a threat to the peace and development of the state. We urge both parties to prioritize the interests of the people and resolve their differences through dialogue,” said Comrade Joseph Ambakederimo, a civil rights activist.
The lockout of Governor Siminalayi Fubara from the Rivers State House of Assembly has further heightened the political tension in the state. As the crisis unfolds, the focus will be on how the governor and the lawmakers navigate their differences and ensure stability in the state.
For now, the political landscape in Rivers remains volatile, with the possibility of further confrontations looming.
-----
DAILY MENTOR
