The Ohanaeze Ndigbo, led by Chief Jackson Omenazu, has criticized Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, accusing him of undermining due process and causing political strife in the state.
In a statement signed by Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, Deputy President General, and Chief Chinenyeze Thompson Ohia, National Publicity Secretary of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, the group expressed concern over the governor’s alleged preference for working with a three-member faction of the House of Assembly instead of the full 27-member legislative body.
The apex Igbo socio-cultural organization voiced its support for the 10th Rivers State House of Assembly, led by Speaker Rt. Hon. Martin Chike Amaewhule.
“In the eyes of Nigerian law and within the conscience of the citizenry, Rt. Hon. Amaewhule is the authentic and rightful Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly,” the group stated.
The statement called on Governor Fubara to halt actions that could exacerbate political instability in Rivers State.
“We urge Governor Sim Fubara to cease catalyzing imaginary confusion and unnecessary political strife within our beloved state and to prioritize the restoration of peace and unity for the greater good of all Rivers citizens.”
The Ohanaeze Ndigbo commended the Amaewhule-led House for overriding the governor’s veto on three critical bills: the Rivers State Education (Return of Schools) Amendment Bill, the Rivers Electricity Market Bill, and the Rivers State Commission of Inquiry Bill, 2024.
“These bills, aimed at fostering socio-economic welfare, particularly for marginalized and economically disadvantaged citizens, were presented to the governor over a month ago.
The legislators’ decision to override the veto, in line with Section 100(6) of the 1999 Constitution, underscores their dedication to democratic principles,” the statement added.
The group condemned Governor Fubara for withholding assent to the bills, describing it as a disregard for the pressing needs of Rivers citizens.
“It is profoundly troubling that Governor Fubara has withheld his approval of these bills, which are designed explicitly to improve the dire conditions faced by the impoverished populations of Rivers State,” they said.
The Ohanaeze Ndigbo also criticized the governor’s presentation of the 2025 Appropriation Bill to a three-member faction of the House of Assembly, describing it as an affront to democratic norms.
“This action raises serious concerns regarding the representation of the genuine interests of the Rivers populace,” the group said.
The organization applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for maintaining a balanced political landscape in Rivers State, which it said has enabled the Amaewhule-led House to effectively carry out its legislative duties.
The statement emphasized the importance of the separation of powers, accusing the executive branch under Governor Fubara of encroaching on legislative roles.
“Such actions represent a clear threat to the tenets of democracy that our state and nation hold dear,” the group noted.
Reaffirming its support for the Amaewhule-led legislature, the Ohanaeze Ndigbo declared, “We stand united in our unwavering support for the Rivers State House of Assembly as they champion democracy, uphold the rights and welfare of the citizens, and navigate the complexities of governance for the betterment of all Rivers State residents.”
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