… Sabotage Rivers Budget and LGA Elections
The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has raised alarm over what it describes as a dangerous plot by the 27 lawmakers loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to destabilize the Rivers State political landscape and undermine democratic governance.
HURIWA’s alarm comes following reports that the lawmakers, led by Speaker Martin Amaewhule, abruptly adjourned the Rivers State House of Assembly sittings indefinitely shortly after receiving Governor Fubara’s letter requesting to re-present the 2025 Appropriation Bill, in compliance with the recent Supreme Court judgment. This move, HURIWA contended, is a deliberate attempt to frustrate the implementation of the apex court’s judgment and sabotage the smooth conduct of the already scheduled local government elections in August.
In a statement released on Sunday, HURIWA accused the pro- Wike camp of plotting against the democratic process in Rivers State by deliberately embarking on an indefinite legislative recess aimed at sabotaging Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s efforts to present the 2025 Appropriation Bill and conduct the already scheduled Local Government Area (LGA) elections in August.
The association expressed concern over the dangerous political game being played by the Assembly members who, rather than uphold the rule of law and constitutional governance, have chosen to undermine the Supreme Court ruling and frustrate the Rivers State government’s attempts to restore stability and normalcy.
“It is clear that the pro- Wike camp does not want the implementation of the Supreme Court judgment because they are plotting against both the presentation of the state budget and the conduct of the forthcoming LGA elections. This is a sinister ploy to plunge Rivers State into avoidable chaos and political instability,” HURIWA stated.
HURIWA commended Governor Fubara for demonstrating leadership and adherence to the rule of law by promptly notifying the Rivers State House of Assembly of his intention to re-present the budget in full compliance with the Supreme Court’s decision. “Despite being denied access to the Assembly complex during his last attempt, Governor Fubara has shown remarkable restraint and a commitment to good governance.
“The governor has shown his willingness to implement the Supreme Court judgment in good faith. However, the 27 lawmakers loyal to the FCT minister are clearly working against the interest of Rivers people by embarking on an indefinite recess to deliberately stall the presentation and passage of the vital 2025 budget,” HURIWA stressed.
The association warned that the indefinite adjournment is nothing but a calculated move to frustrate governance, deny the people of Rivers State the dividends of democracy, and sabotage the August LGA elections, which the government has already scheduled to ensure grassroots leadership through democratic means.
HURIWA maintained that the Supreme Court had already issued clear directives for all arms of government to operate within constitutional frameworks, and any further delay or refusal to reconvene plenary sittings constitutes outright disobedience to the judgment and a blatant affront to the constitution.
“The plot by pro-Wike’s group to frustrate the Supreme Court judgment on budget presentation and the conduct of LGA elections will fail,” HURIWA declared. “The people of Rivers State are fully aware of these anti-democratic machinations and will resist any attempt to derail the hard-earned peace and progress in the state.”
The association called on the Rivers State House of Assembly to immediately return to plenary and carry out their constitutional duty of passing the 2025 budget, which is crucial for the development and welfare of the state’s citizens. HURIWA emphasized that the continuous indefinite adjournment of sittings is a disservice to the people and undermines the democratic will of Rivers State.
HURIWA further warned against any subterranean attempt to reinstate the former LGA chairmen and councillors who have since vacated office in line with constitutional provisions. The association reiterated that any such move would be met with stiff opposition, as the good people of Rivers State are prepared to democratically elect their local council leaders in August without interference from political godfathers.
“It is not only unconstitutional but also undemocratic to try to impose former LGA officials on the people against the lawfully scheduled elections. Any plot to derail this democratic process will be resisted by Rivers people who are eager to exercise their right to vote and determine their leadership at the grassroots level,” the statement read.
HURIWA urged the Honourable minister of FCT, Nyesom Wike to refrain from instigating his loyalists to actualize this dangerous plot, which, if allowed to succeed, could plunge Rivers State into deeper political turmoil and jeopardize the peace and security of the state.
The association reminded erstwhile governor of the grave responsibility leaders have to uphold peace, promote democratic ideals, and act in the best interest of the people, not personal political ambitions.
“As a former governor and now a federal minister, Wike must resist the temptation to destabilize his home state for political expediency. The people of Rivers State deserve peace, stability, and development, not endless power tussles and political manipulations,” HURIWA emphasized.
The association called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the leadership of the National Assembly, and other well-meaning stakeholders to intervene to ensure that the rule of law prevails in Rivers State. The people of Rivers State must be allowed to enjoy democratic governance without undue interference or attempts to subvert judicial pronouncements.
In conclusion, HURIWA reaffirmed its solidarity with Governor Fubara and the people of Rivers State in their quest for lawful, peaceful, and democratic governance. The association pledged to continue advocating for the supremacy of the constitution and the protection of citizens’ rights against political oppression.
Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko
National Coordinator,
Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA)
March 16, 2025
