Rivers Lawmaker Rejects Fubara’s Invitation, Says Governor Should ‘Be on His Own’
A member of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Lolo Isaiah Opuende, has dismissed Governor Siminialayi Fubara’s invitation for a meeting at Government House, Port Harcourt.
In a video circulated online, Opuende declared that the governor should “dey his dey” (be on his own), while the lawmakers would also maintain their stance.
Representing Akuku-Toru Constituency 2, Opuende recalled that their principal had foreseen the current political crisis and had warned that a time would come for both sides to go their separate ways.
He also criticised the method of invitation, questioning its validity.
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“How can you write a letter for the House of Assembly and put it on social media and expect us to come? The governor should write us the proper way,” he said.
Governor Fubara had earlier invited the Rt. Hon. Martins Amaewhule-led faction of the House to a meeting at the Government House on Monday, following increasing pressure from the lawmakers.
The invitation came after the expiration of a 48-hour ultimatum issued by the Assembly, demanding that the governor present the 2025 budget.
A letter dated 9th March, signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Tammy Danagogo, and addressed to Speaker Amaewhule, stated that the governor had received the Supreme Court judgment and was prepared to meet with legislators loyal to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.
The meeting’s agenda included discussions on assembly sitting arrangements, outstanding allowances, budget presentation, and other related matters.
The Assembly had previously demanded that the governor submit the 2025 budget and had issued another ultimatum for him to remove commissioners and board members not screened by the House.
It also summoned the Chairman of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) to appear before it.
Despite expectations that the Supreme Court ruling would resolve the prolonged political crisis in the state, it has instead intensified tensions, with both factions interpreting the verdict in their favour.
Legal and political analysts believe the ruling has placed Fubara in a difficult position, as the Wike faction capitalises on the judgment to strengthen its influence.
Some have suggested that a political resolution, rather than legal confrontations, may be the only way to stabilise the situation.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
