Gladness Gideon
Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, was on Wednesday denied access to the official quarters of the state House of Assembly along Aba Road, Port Harcourt, where lawmakers loyal to his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, have been holding sittings.
Fubara, who had arrived at the complex with key government officials, including the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Tammy Danagogo, and his Chief of Staff, Edison Ehie, found the gate locked and was unable to enter the premises.
The governor had earlier indicated plans to present the 2024 budget, as part of his commitment to implement the Supreme Court judgment.
Speaking to journalists at the scene, Governor Fubara accused the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Martin Amaewhule, of deliberately avoiding him. The governor stated that he had made several attempts to contact the Speaker but was met with silence, as his calls went unanswered.
“I made several attempts to speak to the Speaker before my arrival here,” Fubara said.
“I also sent a letter for this particular invitation. Unfortunately, when we got here, the gate was completely sealed, and there was no indication that anything would happen today.”
Despite the setback, Governor Fubara emphasized that his actions were for the greater good of the people of Rivers State. He reiterated his commitment to fulfilling his constitutional duties and ensuring the proper execution of state governance.
READ ALSO:Â Gov Fubara: No Price Too Big to Pay for Peace in Rivers
“The reason why we are doing this, I have always said, is in the interest of our people, which is the most important thing,” Fubara added. “I don’t think there is anything to worry about. I expect to hear from them after today.”
After addressing the media, the governor and his entourage left the premises, expressing hope that the situation would be resolved promptly.
The incident highlights ongoing tensions within the state legislature, where political differences between the current administration and the loyalists of former Governor Nyesom Wike continue to affect the smooth functioning of state governance. Governor Fubara’s administration remains determined to uphold the Supreme Court ruling and carry out the necessary tasks, including the formal presentation of the 2024 budget.