Rivers Crisis: Wike Condemns Governor Fubara’s Letter To Lawmakers

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has strongly criticized Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara over his recent letter to the State House of Assembly. Wike described the letter, which sought a meeting with lawmakers to discuss the Supreme Court’s rulings on the state’s political crisis, as “useless” and unnecessary.

Rivers State Political Crisis Deepens as Lawmakers Bar Governor Fubara From Assembly

Wike Rejects Fubara’s Approach to Lawmakers

Speaking to journalists in Abuja on Wednesday, Wike dismissed Fubara’s method of communication, insisting that the lawmakers, led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, are not under the governor’s control and should be treated with respect. He argued that instead of sending a public letter, Fubara should have personally reached out to Amaewhule by phone to schedule a meeting.

“You have had a frosty relationship with an arm of government. If you are a good politician, will you go and write a letter? Is it by writing a letter signed by the SSG? What an insult! Is it how it is done?” Wike said.

He further criticized Fubara for what he described as “playing to the gallery,” stating that the governor’s actions were insincere and aimed at public spectacle rather than genuine political reconciliation.

Supreme Court Ruling Deepens Rivers Political Tension

The ongoing political conflict in Rivers State took a critical turn on February 28, when the Supreme Court made several key rulings concerning the power struggle in the state.

A five-member panel, led by Justice Emmanuel Akomaye, rejected Fubara’s appeal that challenged the legitimacy of the House of Assembly under Speaker Martins Amaewhule. The court ruled in favor of Amaewhule’s leadership, recognizing his Assembly as the legitimate legislative body of the state.

Additionally, the Supreme Court placed financial restrictions on the Rivers State Government by preventing the Central Bank of Nigeria, the Accountant General, and other financial institutions from releasing state funds. This decision was made following the court’s observation that the Rivers government had previously disobeyed judicial rulings.

One of the key reasons for this decision was the Supreme Court’s stance on the local government elections held on October 5, 2024. The court declared the elections invalid and accused the government of defying legal procedures.

Fubara Pledges Compliance with Supreme Court Verdict

Following the Supreme Court’s ruling, Governor Fubara assured that his administration would comply with the judgment. He directed the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission to conduct fresh local government elections, now scheduled for August 9, 2025.

As part of efforts to resolve the political crisis, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Tammy Danagogo, sent a letter to the House of Assembly on Friday, requesting a meeting with lawmakers on March 10. The proposed meeting is expected to focus on the 2025 state budget and discuss measures to restore political stability in Rivers State.

Wike Insists on Proper Governance for Peace

When asked about the prospects of peace in Rivers State, Wike maintained that true peace can only be achieved when the right actions are taken. He urged Fubara to follow due process, particularly in presenting the 2025 budget and submitting a list of commissioners for approval.

“What is peace? What is more important than letting the right thing be done? When the right thing is done, there will be peace. But if the right thing is not done, how can you talk about peace? Go present the budget; go submit the list of the commissioners,” Wike stated.

With the political standoff showing no signs of immediate resolution, all eyes are now on Governor Fubara and Speaker Amaewhule to see how they navigate the crisis in the coming days. As Rivers State faces governance disruptions, stakeholders continue to call for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.