A coalition of opposition lawmakers has accused pro-Wike legislators of attempting to derail the upcoming local government elections in Rivers State through illegal legislative amendments and court orders.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, the leader of the group, Rep. Ikenga Ugochinyere (PDP – Imo State), alleged that lawmakers loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, were plotting to block the elections and obstruct the implementation of the 2025 Rivers State budget despite a Supreme Court directive.
Ugochinyere claimed that the pro-Wike faction aimed to amend the Local Government Administration Law to reinstate former local government chairmen whose tenure had expired.
“Their plan is to frustrate the election so that these former LGA chairmen can return to office. But we assure the people of Rivers State that the election will proceed as scheduled,” he stated.
The lawmaker also accused the group of seeking a court injunction to halt the elections, a tactic he said had been used in previous political crises in the state.
Additionally, Ugochinyere accused the lawmakers of deliberately boycotting the 2025 budget presentation, alleging that their goal was to cripple governance.
“The Governor invited them for a meeting, something Wike himself would never have done. But they refused to attend. The Speaker ignored multiple calls from the Governor. This is a deliberate attempt to create chaos and hardship for Rivers people.”
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Despite these setbacks, Ugochinyere commended Governor Siminalayi Fubara for maintaining calm and adhering to the Supreme Court ruling, emphasizing that the Governor had acted in good faith by engaging with the Assembly members.
The opposition lawmakers accused Wike of prioritizing control over Rivers State above peace and development.
“Wike’s interest is not peace or progress; it is control. He no longer governs the state, so he wants nothing to move forward. Every crisis, from the local government elections to the Assembly standoff, is part of his strategy to keep the state under his grip,” Ugochinyere alleged.
They further warned that the people of Rivers State would resist any attempt to undermine democracy, urging Nigerians to remain vigilant against unconstitutional political maneuvers.
“This crisis is nearing its end, which is why there’s increased desperation. But Rivers people are rising. Our party leaders, governors, and the National Working Committee are taking a stand to put an end to this political turmoil.”
The lawmakers reaffirmed their support for Governor Fubara, calling on all political actors to respect democratic institutions and uphold the rule of law.