Tension In Rivers! Group Pressures Fubara To Remove 27 Lawmakers Loyal To Wike

The political crisis in Rivers State has taken a new turn as a pressure group has issued an ultimatum to Governor Siminalayi Fubara, demanding the eviction of 27 lawmakers loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.

The group, whose identity is yet to be fully disclosed, insists that the lawmakers no longer have legitimacy following their defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). According to the group, their continued stay in the Rivers State House of Assembly is unconstitutional and poses a threat to the stability of the state.

Calls for Immediate Action

The group has called on Fubara to take decisive steps in upholding the rule of law by ensuring that the 27 defected lawmakers vacate their seats. They argue that the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria (as amended) is clear on the fate of lawmakers who switch political parties without justifiable reasons.

A spokesperson for the group stated:
“Governor Fubara must act now to restore order and integrity to the Rivers State Assembly. These lawmakers have lost their mandate and should not continue to make decisions on behalf of the people they no longer represent.”

Political Tension Escalates

This development comes amidst an already heated political standoff between Fubara and Wike, his predecessor and former political ally. The defection of the lawmakers was widely seen as part of Wike’s influence to retain control over the state’s political structure despite Fubara’s administration.

Observers believe that if Fubara takes action against the lawmakers, it could further deepen the crisis in Rivers State, possibly leading to more political realignments and legal battles.

What’s Next?

As the deadline issued by the group approaches, all eyes are on Governor Fubara to see if he will take the bold step of removing the lawmakers. Meanwhile, legal experts have weighed in, suggesting that the matter could end up in court, given the sensitive nature of the case.

With the growing tension, Rivers State remains on edge as political gladiators battle for dominance in one of Nigeria’s most politically strategic states.