Rivers Crisis: Ohanaeze Criticizes Fubara, Declares Support for 27 Lawmakers

Ohanaeze Ndigbo has criticized Governor Siminalayi Fubara over the ongoing Rivers State crisis, voicing its support for the 27 lawmakers involved in the dispute.

Chief Jackson Omenazu, leader of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has criticized Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara for allegedly not adhering to due process in legal matters within the state.

It is notable that the recent Ohanaeze election resulted in three President-Generals being elected: Chief Uche Okwukwu, Senator John Azuta-Mbata, and Chief Jackson Omenazu, all hailing from Ikwerre in Rivers State.

The group led by Omenazu expressed their strong desire for lasting peace to return to Rivers State.

The Igbo group expressed that it was unusual for the governor to operate with a 3-member House of Assembly and recognized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s genuine efforts in sustaining a balanced political environment in Rivers State.

This information was included in a statement released to journalists on Friday, signed by Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, Deputy President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, and Chief Chinenyeze Thompson Ohia, the National Publicity Secretary/Spokesman for Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide.

They state that the leading Igbo socio-cultural organization firmly backs the leadership and committed members of the 10th Rivers State House of Assembly, effectively headed by Rt. Hon. Martin Chike Amaewhule.

They argued that, according to Nigerian law and the public’s conscience, Rt. Hon. Amaewhule is recognized as the legitimate Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly.

We call on Governor Sim Fubara to stop inciting unfounded confusion and unnecessary political conflict in our state, and instead focus on restoring peace and unity for the benefit of all Rivers citizens.

The Ohanaeze group also praised the Amaewhule-led House of Assembly for overriding the Governor’s veto on three important pieces of legislation.

The Rivers State Education (Return of Schools) Amendment Bill, the Rivers Electricity Market Bill, and the Rivers State Commission of Inquiry Bill, 2024—crucial pieces of legislation designed to enhance socio-economic welfare for all citizens, particularly those who are marginalized or economically disadvantaged—were submitted to the Governor over a month ago.

By overturning the Governor’s veto in full compliance with Section 100(6) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, the legislators have demonstrated their dedication to their constitutional duties and upheld our shared democratic principles.

It is deeply concerning that Governor Fubara has not approved these bills, which are specifically intended to improve the harsh conditions faced by impoverished communities in Rivers State.

The determination demonstrated by the House of Assembly is both praiseworthy and essential given the Governor’s apparent neglect of our people’s urgent needs.

Moreover, we strongly denounce Governor Fubara’s presentation of the 2025 Appropriation Bill to Victor Oko-Jumbo, Adolphus Timothy, and Sokari Goodboy.

This action is puzzling and brings up serious questions about whether the true interests of the Rivers population are being represented.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo also recognizes President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s genuine efforts to sustain a balanced political environment in Rivers State. These efforts have allowed the Rt. Hon. Martin Chike Amaewhule-led House of Assembly to resume its legislative duties effectively.

The group further emphasized that this support is essential to prevent a “one-man show” situation from developing under Governor Sim Fubara’s administration.

It further stated: “Governor Sim Fubara and the executive branch’s efforts to take on legislative roles, whether directly or indirectly, pose a significant threat to the democratic principles cherished by our state and nation.”

We support the Rt. Hon. Martin Chike Amaewhule and all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo is firmly united in its steadfast support as they advocate for democracy, defend citizens’ rights and welfare, and address the challenges of governance to improve life for all residents of Rivers State.