UPDATED: Heavy Security Presence as Rivers Assembly Resumes Sitting

Security operatives have been deployed in large numbers as the Rivers State House of Assembly reconvenes amid political tensions. Stay updated on the latest developments.

A significant security presence is observed at the Rivers House of Assembly Quarters in Port Harcourt on Monday, where state lawmakers are scheduled to hold their session.

On Monday morning, Martin Amaewhule, the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, issued the notice for the sitting.

At the time this report was prepared, several squads of police officers and SSS operatives were present at the Assembly Quarters in the capital city of Niger Delta State.

Although the specific agenda for Monday’s plenary is still unknown, there are strong indications that discussions will primarily focus on issues concerning local government administration in Rivers State.

This development follows a recent Supreme Court order for Amaewhule and other lawmakers to resume their sessions, ending months of intense conflict over control of the Assembly.

Last week’s ruling by the apex court also annulled the Rivers State local government election from last year. Additionally, it directed the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to suspend funding for the oil-rich state’s government until it addresses what was termed as blatant disregard for court orders by purging itself accordingly.

Following the verdict, Governor Sim Fubara announced in a state broadcast that fresh local government elections would be conducted. He assured that his administration was committed to complying with the Supreme Court’s decision.

Fubara stated, “Moreover, with the prohibition of caretaker arrangements in the local government system, I instruct the Heads of Local Government Administration to promptly assume control of administering the 23 local government councils until new elections are conducted by the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission.”

I also instruct the departing local government chairmen to officially transfer authority to the Heads of Local Government Administration by Monday, March 3rd, 2025.