Rivers State Governor Recognises Reinstated Lawmakers In Landmark Move.
Rivers State, Governor Siminalayi Fubara has formally recognised 27 State House of Assembly members, led by Speaker Martin Amaewhule, following a Supreme Court ruling that reinstated the lawmakers. The decision marks a turning point in a political saga that has gripped the state for over 17 months.
The crisis began when the Amaewhule-led lawmakers, loyalists of Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). In response, Governor Fubara declared their seats vacant, sparking a protracted legal and political battle. For more than a year, the state remained divided, with numerous court cases and interventions from stakeholders failing to resolve the impasse.
The breakthrough came last Friday when the Supreme Court ruled in favour of the sacked lawmakers, reinstating them to their positions. On Monday, the Amaewhule-led Assembly held its first plenary session in Port Harcourt since the ruling, wasting no time in asserting its authority. The lawmakers issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Governor Fubara, demanding that he re-present the 2025 budget, which had previously been passed by a rival faction of three lawmakers loyal to the governor.
With tensions running high, many speculated whether Fubara would comply with the Supreme Court’s decision or defy the ultimatum. On Wednesday, the governor’s administration responded with a formal letter addressed to the Amaewhule-led Assembly. While the government indicated it might not re-present the budget within the stipulated timeframe, the letter itself was a clear signal of Fubara’s recognition of the reinstated lawmakers and his intent to adhere to the court’s judgement.
Political analysts have hailed the move as a step towards reconciliation in Rivers State, where the feud between Fubara and his predecessor, Wike, has dominated headlines. “This is a victory for the rule of law,” said Dr Chidi Okoro, a political commentator based in Port Harcourt. “The governor’s letter demonstrates a willingness to respect the judiciary and work with the reinstated Assembly, which could pave the way for stability in the state.”
However, challenges remain. The issue of the 2025 budget looms large, with the Amaewhule-led lawmakers insisting on its re-presentation. The Fubara administration has hinted at logistical or procedural reasons for the delay, though details remain sparse. Observers are watching closely to see how both sides navigate this next hurdle.
For now, residents of Rivers State can breathe a sigh of relief as the long-standing legislative crisis appears to be nearing a resolution. The governor’s recognition of the pro-Wike lawmakers not only complies with the Supreme Court’s directive but also opens the door to renewed cooperation between the executive and legislative arms of government.
As the state moves forward, all eyes will be on Port Harcourt to see if this détente holds—and whether it can bring lasting peace to Rivers’ turbulent political landscape.
