Rivers Political Crisis: APC Factions Clash Over Fubara's Impeachment Threat

The political turmoil in Rivers State has escalated as factions within the All Progressives Congress (APC) engage in a heated battle over the possible impeachment of Governor Siminalayi Fubara. The faction led by Tony Okocha, recognized by the APC’s national leadership, has demanded that Fubara either resign or face impeachment, citing several alleged constitutional violations. In contrast, the faction loyal to former governor Rotimi Amaechi, headed by Chief Emeka Bekee, has condemned Okocha’s stance, questioning his legitimacy within the party.

Tensions Escalate Amid Political Instability

Governor Fubara, addressing supporters, reassured the people of Rivers State that despite the political challenges, the state would emerge stronger. He urged citizens to remain peaceful and law-abiding. However, his attempt to convene a peace meeting at Government House with Speaker Martins Amaewhule and 26 other lawmakers was met with resistance, as they refused to attend.

In a related development, the Amaewhule-led House of Assembly intensified tensions by issuing an arrest warrant for the Chairman of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC), Justice Adolphus Enebeli, and four other commissioners. Additionally, RSIEC Commissioner Ibierembo Thompson resigned, citing the Supreme Court’s ruling on the disputed local government elections.

Former Governor Calls for Ceasefire

Amidst the crisis, former Rivers State Governor Chief Rufus Ada-George has urged all involved parties to de-escalate hostilities. He called for an end to inflammatory statements and urged a peaceful resolution for the stability of the state.

Okocha Insists on Fubara’s Resignation or Impeachment

Tony Okocha, addressing the media, stated that the APC remains the primary opposition in Rivers State and accused Governor Fubara of mismanaging the state’s affairs. He dismissed the governor’s invitation to lawmakers as insignificant, claiming that Fubara’s administration has failed.

“The governor behaves like a puritan, but he’s a dangerous snake. His meeting agenda with the lawmakers is irrelevant,” Okocha asserted. He insisted that Fubara must either resign or face impeachment for alleged misconduct and disrespect towards the President.

Counterattack: Amaechi’s APC Faction Denounces Okocha

The APC faction aligned with former governor Rotimi Amaechi has strongly refuted Okocha’s allegations. Publicity Secretary Darlington Nwauju argued that Okocha’s leadership position is illegitimate, as the court had nullified his role as caretaker chairman.

Nwauju further criticized Okocha’s accusations against Fubara, highlighting inconsistencies in his stance on legal proceedings. “How can a man disregarding a court order preach about upholding the law?” he questioned. He also accused Okocha of failing to account for his tenure at the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

Fubara Encourages Supporters Amid Crisis

Despite the growing tension, Governor Fubara has urged Rivers people to remain hopeful, assuring them that his administration is committed to peace and progress. Speaking at the inauguration of the Palace of Nyeweali Akpor Kingdom, Fubara emphasized that his government is dedicated to delivering impactful projects for the benefit of the people.

Legislators Reject Peace Meeting

Efforts to ease the crisis through dialogue suffered a setback when invited lawmakers refused to attend the peace meeting at Government House. According to sources, the lawmakers objected to the manner in which the invitation was handled, claiming it was improperly communicated via social media instead of an official channel.

A video circulating online shows one of the lawmakers, Isaiah Opuende, justifying their absence. He remarked, “How can you post an invitation on social media and expect us to attend? We are not children.”

Conclusion

As the political battle in Rivers State intensifies, the fate of Governor Fubara hangs in the balance. The divided APC factions continue to engage in a war of words, while the state legislature remains defiant. With a former governor calling for peace and the crisis escalating, it remains to be seen whether Rivers State will find a resolution or plunge deeper into political instability.

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