Nigeria’s Rivers State House of Assembly has passed the Rivers State Local Government (Amendment) Bill into law, despite Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s refusal to assent to the bill. The move by the Assembly, led by Speaker Martin Amaewhule, highlights a deepening rift between the legislature and the executive branch in the oil-rich state.
Clash Over Local Government Authority
The specific details of the Local Government (Amendment) Bill have not been made public. However, the Assembly’s decision to override the Governor’s veto suggests a significant disagreement over the power dynamics between the state government and local governments. This is further amplified by the Assembly’s recent passage of the Rivers State Assembly Service Commission (Amendment) Bill, which took back control over the appointment of the Assembly Service Commission from the Governor and placed it back in the hands of the legislature.
Political Tensions Simmer in Rivers
Local media reports suggest that 27 members of the Assembly, believed to be loyal to former Governor Nyesom Wike, are behind the efforts to restrict Governor Fubara’s authority. Tensions between the Wike camp and Governor Fubara have been simmering since Fubara’s unexpected victory in the 2023 gubernatorial election. The relationship deteriorated further following a failed impeachment attempt against Governor Fubara in November 2023.
This is not the first time political tensions have flared up in Rivers State. The state has a long history of political instability, with frequent clashes between the legislature and the executive. In 2013, for example, Governor Wike, then serving as Minister of State for Education, engaged in a bitter feud with then-Governor Rotimi Amaechi that resulted in multiple suspensions of the Assembly by the Governor.
Uncertain Path Forward for Rivers Politics
The ongoing political battle between the Rivers State House of Assembly and Governor Fubara raises concerns about stability in the state. The ability of the legislature and the executive to work together effectively is crucial for delivering essential services to the state’s citizens. However, residents of Rivers State are left wondering how these political maneuvers will impact their everyday lives.
It remains to be seen how Governor Fubara will respond to the Assembly’s actions. He may choose to challenge the bill’s legality in court. Alternatively, he might seek to find common ground with the Assembly through negotiations. The coming weeks will likely see significant political maneuvering in Rivers State.
Impact on National Politics
The political turmoil in Rivers State could also have implications for national politics. Rivers State is a significant power base for the opposition party, and the ongoing conflict could weaken the party’s position ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Source: Punch
