Rivers State Assembly Members Reject Governor Fubara’s Invitation via Social Media
The Rivers State House of Assembly, led by Martin Amaewhule, has asked Governor Siminalayi Fubara to extend his invitation to them through proper channels rather than social media.
This response came after the governor, through the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Tammy Danagogo, invited the lawmakers to a meeting at the Government House on Monday. The agenda included discussions on providing a suitable space for legislative sessions, settling outstanding allowances, and presenting the 2025 budget.
However, the 27 lawmakers loyal to former Governor Nyesom Wike appear unwilling to attend unless their conditions are met. Akuku-Toru Constituency 2 representative, Isaiah Opuende, criticized the governor for using social media to reach out to them. He stated that after Fubara had repeatedly distanced himself from them, it was now their turn to do the same.
“It’s time for us to determine our stance. When the ‘dey your dey’ statement started, our leader said our own time would come. That time is now,” Opuende remarked, questioning why an official invitation would be posted online.
Similarly, former local government chairmen who served under Wike have mocked the governor in a viral video. Among them, Dr. Samuel Nwanosike, former Ikwerre LG chairman, was seen alongside others chanting songs ridiculing the invitation and insisting that Speaker Amaewhule should not be disturbed.
Following the Supreme Court’s ruling affirming their legitimacy, the lawmakers held their first sitting and demanded that Governor Fubara present the 2025 budget and submit nominees for key appointments. They also summoned the leadership of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission for questioning.
However, the state government initially delayed any response, citing the need to obtain the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the judgment. The document was eventually released and published in national newspapers on Thursday.
In an effort to mend relations, SSG Danagogo issued a formal letter to Speaker Amaewhule, emphasizing that the meeting was necessary now that the Supreme Court ruling had been received. The letter reiterated the need to resolve critical issues, including the lawmakers’ sitting space, outstanding remuneration, and the budget presentation.
It remains to be seen whether the lawmakers will accept the invitation or maintain their hardline stance.
