The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has strongly criticized Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, stating that he deserves to be impeached. Wike made this declaration late Friday while addressing the press, just hours after the Supreme Court delivered a crucial judgment regarding the political crisis in Rivers State.
The ruling upheld the reinstatement of the Martin Amaewhule-led faction of the Rivers State House of Assembly, which is widely regarded as being loyal to Wike. The controversy surrounding the lawmakers began when they were accused of defecting from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Governor Fubara and his allies argued that the defection should have led to their automatic removal from the legislative body. However, the Supreme Court dismissed this claim, ruling in favor of the lawmakers.
In addition to affirming the Assembly members reinstatement, the Supreme Court issued another significant directive. It instructed the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to withhold Rivers State federal allocations until Governor Fubara submits the state budget to the House of Assembly. This move intensifies the ongoing power struggle between the governor and lawmakers, adding further pressure on Fubara’s administration.
Wike’s call for impeachment comes amid a deepening political rift in Rivers State. Once close allies, Wike and Fubara have been locked in a bitter dispute over the state’s governance. Many see this latest development as a major setback for Fubara, as the reinstated lawmakers now have the authority to challenge his decisions and potentially initiate impeachment proceedings.
The Supreme Court’s ruling and Wike’s remarks have triggered widespread reactions across political circles. Supporters of Fubara view the decision as an attempt to undermine his leadership, while Wike’s loyalists see it as a victory for constitutional order. With Rivers State federal funds now tied to the budget approval by the Assembly, the pressure on Fubara to reconcile with the lawmakers has intensified.
