The Rivers State House of Assembly has accused Governor Siminialayi Fubara of multiple constitutional violations, including making unlawful appointments and disregarding legislative approval.
In a letter signed by Speaker Martin Amaewhule, the Assembly highlighted four major infractions, notably the appointment of 19 commissioners and other officials without legislative screening and confirmation. The lawmakers nullified these appointments, warning that such actions undermine democratic governance.
Additionally, the Assembly summoned the Chairman of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC), Justice Adolphus Enebeli (retd.), to appear within 48 hours regarding the October 5, 2024, local government election, threatening arrest if he fails to comply.
This latest letter marks the second official correspondence since the Supreme Court affirmed the legitimacy of the 27-member Assembly loyal to former governor Nyesom Wike and nullified the October 5, 2024, election. The first letter, dated March 3, 2025, had demanded the governor present the 2025 budget within 48 hours, a request the government claimed it never received.
The Assembly also criticized Fubara’s directive for sacked local government chairmen to hand over to Heads of Local Government Administration, deeming it unconstitutional.
During its 131st legislative sitting, the Assembly reiterated that appointments requiring confirmation had been made without due process. It listed several commissioners and members of government agencies appointed and sworn in without legislative approval, citing violations of the 1999 Constitution.
The lawmakers gave the governor 48 hours to submit a list of nominees for proper screening and confirmation.
In response, the Rivers State government, through Secretary to the State Government Dr. Tammy Danagogo, claimed it had not officially received the Assembly’s resolution, learning of it only through social media.
Meanwhile, RSIEC Chairman Justice Enebeli rejected the 48-hour summons, arguing through his lawyer that it violated principles of fair hearing and required at least a seven-day notice. He threatened legal action if the ultimatum was not withdrawn.
Despite the legal tensions, RSIEC has now scheduled a fresh local government election for August 9, 2025, following the Supreme Court ruling that voided the previous poll. The commission announced that political parties must express interest by April 4, 2025, to participate.