Amid escalating political tensions, Governor Siminalayi Fubara made an unexpected appearance at the Rivers State Assembly Quarters on Thursday.
The quarters, which accommodate the state’s 32 legislators, also temporarily host the Martin Amaewhule-led state Assembly’s sessions following the main assembly building’s demolition.
Flanked by his entourage of aides in both uniforms and civilian attire, Governor Fubara conducted a swift inspection of the quarters.
Subsequently, he proceeded to evaluate the Emohua-Kalabari road project, which is scheduled for inauguration during his first-anniversary celebrations the following week.
Governor Fubara commended the progress of the road construction and underscored its significance.
He clarified that his visit to the Assembly Quarters was a proactive measure to appraise the condition of the facilities, especially in the wake of appointing a new Speaker, hinting at potential renovations to enhance the premises.
“Is the Assembly not part of my property? Is anything wrong going to check how things are going on there? You are aware of the development, we have a new speaker and I went there to see for myself how things are for myself because there might be a few things that I may do there for the good of our people” stated Governor Fubara.
This visit coincides with a renewed crisis within the Rivers State House of Assembly.
In a recent development, a faction of legislators loyal to Governor Fubara elected Victor Oko-Jumbo, the representative for the Bonny constituency, as their Speaker.
Oko-Jumbo, now the Speaker for the full 32-member Assembly, was reportedly elected at 10 am during Wednesday’s plenary, adhering to the House’s Standing Order.
Oko-Jumbo’s election follows a period of political turmoil during which Edison Ehie was chosen as the speaker by Fubara’s supporters. Ehie later resigned from the Assembly to take up the role of the Governor’s Chief of Staff.
The exact number of legislators present at the plenary that culminated in Oko-Jumbo’s speakership remains undisclosed.
