Tensions have escalated in Rivers State as Ijaw groups, including the Ijaw National Congress (INC) and Ijaw Youths Council (IYC), issued a strong warning against the impeachment of Governor Siminalayi Fubara. They argue that removing Fubara could destabilise the Niger Delta, disrupting oil production and national economic stability.
The Rivers State House of Assembly, led by Martin Amaewhule, had given Fubara a 48-hour ultimatum to resubmit the 2025 budget for approval following a Supreme Court ruling that reaffirmed the Assembly’s legitimacy. The ruling also nullified the October 2024 local government elections and ordered the seizure of Rivers State’s allocations.
Ijaw leaders have criticised the court’s ruling, calling it an attempt to undermine Fubara, who is the first riverine governor in decades. The INC and IYC vowed to defend him, warning that his removal could lead to severe consequences, including disruptions in oil production.
Meanwhile, the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) plans to reschedule local government elections. Additionally, elected council chairmen removed in 2015 have declared their intention to resume office, citing a recent Appeal Court ruling in their favour.
As political tensions rise, security agencies have largely declined to comment, with the Nigerian Navy stating that it remains committed to its constitutional duties.
More details to follow later….
