Political Tensions Deepen in Rivers State as Assembly Adjourns Indefinitely

The political crisis in Rivers State took a new turn as the State House of Assembly, led by Speaker Martin Amaewhule, indefinitely suspended its legislative activities. This decision came shortly after Governor Siminalayi Fubara announced his intention to re-present the 2025 Appropriation Bill, following his failed attempt on March 12.

Governor Fubara’s initial effort to present the budget was met with resistance when security operatives blocked him and his entourage from entering the Assembly complex. In his recent letter to the Speaker dated March 13, Fubara reiterated his commitment to constitutional processes and compliance with a Supreme Court judgment. He requested to present the budget on March 19 or any other convenient date within the month, emphasizing the importance of legislative approval for the state’s financial operations.

However, the Assembly’s indefinite adjournment on March 14 has thrown the budget process into uncertainty. This legislative shutdown raises concerns about the timely passage of the budget, which is crucial for public administration, infrastructure development, and service delivery in Rivers State.

Rivers state House of Assembly Passes Three Critical Bills

Before adjourning indefinitely, the Rivers State House of Assembly passed three significant bills aimed at strengthening governance structures in the state. These include:

1. Rivers State Powers and Privileges Bill 2025 – This legislation defines the powers and privileges of the State House of Assembly, ensuring legislative autonomy and effectiveness.
2. Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission Bill 2025 – The bill establishes an independent electoral body to oversee local government elections, promoting transparency and fairness in the electoral process.
3. Rivers State Local Government Bill 2025 – This law seeks to enhance local government administration by empowering grassroots governance for improved service delivery.

Speaker Amaewhule stated that these laws were necessary to align Rivers State’s legislative functions with the Legislative Houses (Powers and Privileges) Act of 2017. However, the indefinite adjournment leaves questions about the House’s willingness to engage with the executive on critical governance matters, particularly the state budget.

Tension Rises in Abalama as Political Rivalries Intensify

As political disagreements escalate at the state level, tensions are also brewing at the grassroots. The Abalama community in Asari-Toru Local Government Area is on edge as supporters of Governor Fubara and those of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, prepare for a potential showdown.

Two rival groups—the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Eastern Zone, and the New Associates, a pro-Wike group—both scheduled events at the same venue, the Abalama Community Secondary School field. The IYC planned to hold a congress at the location, while the New Associates scheduled a grand reception for Wike, reportedly in response to the minister’s controversial remarks on the Ijaw people’s status in the Niger Delta.

The New Associates have vowed to shut down Asari-Toru LGA during Wike’s reception, with their Publicity Committee Chairman, Dr. Enemi George, stating that the event was a thanksgiving service to honor Wike’s contributions to the Kalabari Kingdom. Meanwhile, the IYC remains resolute in holding its congress, setting the stage for a possible violent confrontation.

Traditional Rulers Warn Against Impending Clash

Amid rising tensions in Abalama, traditional rulers from the Kalabari Ethnic Nationality have expressed grave concerns over the possibility of violence. In a statement signed by seven prominent monarchs, the rulers called on Governor Fubara and security agencies to intervene urgently.

The statement, titled “Clarion Call to Avert Violent Clashes and Possible Bloodshed in Kalabari Land,” warned that if both events were held simultaneously, it could lead to unrest. The monarchs urged both groups to reschedule or relocate their events to avoid a breakdown of law and order.

Among the signatories were King Kariboye Karibo (Okio III), King Agolia Cookey Aboko (Omoni XII), and King Stephen J. Tobins (Akee X), all of whom emphasized the need for immediate action to prevent violence. Their intervention highlights the deep-rooted political divisions in Rivers State, which could have far-reaching consequences if left unchecked.

RSIEC Prepares for August 2025 Local Government Elections

Despite the political uncertainty, the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) has continued preparations for the August 9, 2025, local government elections. The commission recently received an updated voter register from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), a crucial step in ensuring credible polls.

RSIEC’s Commissioner for Media and Civic Education, Tamunótonye Tobins, confirmed that the commission had also obtained the list of registered political parties eligible to participate in the elections. This development follows the Supreme Court’s nullification of the 2024 local government elections, citing INEC’s failure to provide an updated voter register.

With fresh elections on the horizon, RSIEC has assured the public of its commitment to conducting a free and fair electoral process. However, the ongoing political crisis, legislative deadlock, and rising tensions in various communities pose significant challenges that could impact the credibility and stability of the election process.

Conclusion

The unfolding political crisis in Rivers State underscores the deep divisions between Governor Fubara and the State House of Assembly, as well as the broader power struggle involving former Governor Wike. With the indefinite adjournment of the Assembly, the state’s governance and budget approval processes remain in limbo, potentially affecting public service delivery.

Meanwhile, tensions in Abalama reflect the wider political polarization in the state, with rival factions mobilizing for potential confrontations. The intervention of traditional rulers and security agencies will be crucial in maintaining peace.

As the state prepares for local government elections in August, stakeholders are watching closely to see if the political impasse can be resolved in a manner that prioritizes the interests of Rivers State residents. The coming weeks will be critical in determining whether the state moves toward stability or deeper political turmoil.