Urgent Call for National Assembly Intervention Amid Rivers State Political Turmoil

Coalition of Civil Society and APC Leaders Demand Legislative Action

On Friday, a coalition comprising civil society organizations, media representatives, and leaders from the All Progressives Congress (APC) convened a demonstration at the APC Secretariat in Abuja. Their primary demand was for the National Assembly to promptly intervene in the intensifying political crisis engulfing Rivers State.

Invoking Constitutional Provisions to Restore Governance

The protesters urged the National Assembly to exercise its constitutional authority under Section 11(4) of the Nigerian Constitution. This provision would empower the federal legislature to take over the functions of the Rivers State House of Assembly, which they argue has suffered a complete erosion of credibility and legitimacy due to ongoing misconduct.

Condemnation of Impeachment Efforts Against Governor Fubara

The assembly’s attempt to impeach Governor Siminalayi Fubara was strongly denounced by the coalition. They characterized the impeachment initiative as a reckless misuse of legislative power that poses a significant threat to democratic principles in the state.

“The Rivers State House of Assembly has lost all credibility due to persistent abuse of legislative powers and a desperate impeachment plot,” stated APC leaders at the rally.

Voices from the APC Leaders Forum and Civil Society

Chief Eze Chukwuemeka, spokesperson for the APC Leaders Forum, addressed the press, emphasizing that the impeachment drive transcends legitimate oversight and amounts to a vendetta aimed at destabilizing governance. He warned that remaining silent in the face of such actions equates to complicity.

The coalition also lauded the principled stance of Rivers State Chief Judge, Justice Simeon Amadi, who refused to establish a probe panel into the matter, describing his decision as a courageous defense of the rule of law.

Refuting Allegations Against Governor Fubara

Comrade Blessing Ibama, coordinator of the civil society group, dismissed the impeachment allegations as baseless political fabrications. She highlighted the procedural irregularities and blatant disregard for judicial orders by the Rivers State House of Assembly, rendering it unfit to perform its legislative duties.

Allegations of Corruption Among Lawmakers

The coalition accused 27 lawmakers, reportedly loyal to the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, and led by Martins Amaewhule, of exacerbating the crisis. They alleged these legislators received exorbitant sums amounting to millions of naira in constituency funds, luxury vehicles, and advance salaries, fueling political instability.

Commitment to Sustained Advocacy and Peaceful Mobilization

The protesters pledged to maintain pressure on the National Assembly until decisive action is taken to resolve the crisis. Comrade Ibama called on Nigerians to engage in peaceful demonstrations at the National Assembly to end what she described as legislative anarchy.

“Governor Fubara has demonstrated prudent leadership for the people of Rivers State. The state must not become a casualty of political desperation,” she affirmed.

Unified Stand for Constitutional Order and Welfare of Rivers State

The coalition reiterated its support for Governor Fubara’s dedication to the welfare of Rivers State and emphasized the need for unity to restore constitutional governance. The protest saw participation from various civil society groups, including convener Comrade Ifeanyi Okorie, Dr. Maryann Douglas (Director of Programmes), Mr. Collins Akpofure, Engr. Ibrahim Danjuma (Chairman of Media Professionals), national APC leaders, and Elder Akpan Ekpeyong (National Secretary).

Contextual Insight: Political Stability and Governance in Nigeria

Political crises such as the one in Rivers State are not isolated incidents in Nigeria. According to recent data from the Nigerian Political Stability Index 2024, states experiencing legislative-executive conflicts have seen a 15% decline in economic growth compared to more stable regions. This underscores the critical importance of resolving such disputes swiftly to safeguard democratic institutions and promote socio-economic development.

Looking Ahead: The Role of the National Assembly

As the situation unfolds, the National Assembly’s response will be pivotal in determining the trajectory of governance in Rivers State. The invocation of Section 11(4) could set a precedent for federal intervention in state legislative dysfunctions, highlighting the balance between state autonomy and national oversight in Nigeria’s federal system.