The political landscape in Rivers State is experiencing upheaval as the fallout from appointments made by the former governor, Nyesom Wike, continues to unfold. The current governor, Siminalayi Fubara, is facing a wave of resignations from key officials, including commissioners and advisers, who claim they were not his choices but were imposed by his predecessor.
A source close to Governor Fubara revealed that the list of appointees and their portfolios was handed over by Wike, leaving Fubara with no say in the selections. The resignations, according to the source, serve as confirmation that these officials were not aligned with the current governor’s vision.
The crisis deepened as three more commissioners—Transport, Dr Jacobson Nbina; Housing, Dr Gift Worlu; and Environment, Austen Ben-Chioma—joined the growing list of resignations, bringing the total to nine. Speculation arises that these resignations may be a prelude to defections to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Simultaneously, the demolition of the state House of Assembly complex continued, with the hallowed chambers completely pulled down. The state government cited integrity issues after an explosion on October 29, 2023, as the reason for the demolition.
As tensions escalate, federal lawmakers protest the crisis, with two members of the National Assembly from Rivers State and the National President of the Ijaw National Congress leading separate groups in solidarity with Governor Fubara. They marched through Port Harcourt, expressing their support and calling for intervention from political figures such as Bola Tinubu.
However, the House of Representatives has clarified that it cannot intervene until the crisis is formally brought to its attention. Deputy spokesman Phillip Agbese stated that without official notification, the House cannot act, expressing hope for an amicable resolution to the situation in Rivers State.
The political crisis has taken a toll on the state, with calls for intervention, protests, and a looming possibility of further defections. As the drama unfolds, all eyes are on Rivers State to see how the political turmoil will be resolved.
