In a significant step toward resolving the ongoing political impasse in Rivers State, Governor Siminilayi Fubara has invited the 27 members of the House of Assembly recently reinstated by the Supreme Court to a crucial meeting at Government House, Port Harcourt.
Backdrop to the Crisis
The lawmakers, led by Speaker Martin Amaewhule, had earlier issued two ultimatums to the governor, demanding that he re-present the 2025 Appropriation Bill. The first was a 48-hour ultimatum, followed by a 72-hour deadline. These ultimatums were widely criticized by political analysts, who described them as dictatorial and disrespectful to the office of the governor, especially considering the sensitive political climate in the state.
Tensions had escalated between the executive and legislative arms of government following the defection of these lawmakers from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), which had triggered legal battles and a temporary loss of their seats. However, with their reinstatement by the Supreme Court, the lawmakers are now seeking to reassert their authority within the state’s governance structure.
Governor’s Invitation: A Move Toward Peace
In a letter dated March 7, 2025, from the Office of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) and addressed to Speaker Martin Amaewhule, Governor Fubara extended an invitation to the lawmakers for a meeting aimed at fostering dialogue and reconciliation.
The letter, titled “Meeting Between the Governor of Rivers State and the Honourable Members of the Rivers State House of Assembly,” emphasized that Governor Fubara, in acknowledgment of the Supreme Court ruling, is willing to engage with the legislators to chart a constructive path forward.
Agenda for the Meeting
According to the letter, the meeting, scheduled for Monday, March 10, 2025, at Government House, Port Harcourt, will focus on key governance issues, including:
- Providing a suitable space for the Assembly’s sittings – Since the crisis began, the House of Assembly complex has been at the center of political contention, and there have been disputes over where the legislators should convene.
- Payment of all outstanding remunerations and allowances – The lawmakers have expressed grievances over unpaid entitlements since their legal battles began, and addressing these financial concerns is expected to be a major point of discussion.
- Presentation of the 2025 Appropriation Bill – One of the lawmakers’ primary demands has been the re-presentation of the state budget, which they claim must undergo due legislative processes.
- Other crucial governance matters – The meeting is expected to address other pressing issues necessary for restoring harmony between the executive and legislative arms of the state government.
A Test of Leadership and Diplomacy
Governor Fubara’s move is being seen by political analysts as a critical test of his leadership and diplomacy. By extending an olive branch to the lawmakers, he is signaling his willingness to work towards peace and stability in Rivers State. However, whether the lawmakers will reciprocate this gesture remains to be seen.
Political observers are keenly watching how the discussions will unfold and whether they will lead to a lasting resolution of the crisis or further deepen the divide.
For now, the people of Rivers State are hopeful that this meeting will mark the beginning of a more collaborative and effective governance structure, prioritizing the state’s development over political differences.
Stay tuned to GistBuddy for more updates on this developing story.