Anarchy in Rivers State: Speaker Abducted Amid Escalating Political Turmoil

Port Harcourt, Nigeria – In a shocking turn of events, the Rivers State House of Assembly descended into chaos today as unidentified thugs stormed the legislative chamber, abducting Speaker Martin Amaewhule. This brazen act occurred shortly after the Assembly passed the second reading of an impeachment motion against Governor Siminalayi Fubara, intensifying the already volatile political climate in the state.

Impeachment Proceedings Against Governor Fubara

The move to impeach Governor Fubara has been brewing for weeks, with allegations of gross misconduct at the forefront. On March 14, 2025, 26 out of 32 lawmakers signed a notice accusing the governor of several constitutional breaches, including:

• Unapproved Expenditures: The governor allegedly authorized spending without the Assembly’s approval, contravening Sections 120, 121(1)(2), and 122 of the Nigerian Constitution. citeturn0search6
• Obstruction of Legislative Functions: Fubara is accused of hindering the Assembly’s constitutional duties and withholding salaries and allowances of lawmakers, thereby crippling legislative operations. citeturn0search13
• Unlawful Appointments: The governor purportedly appointed officials without the necessary screening and confirmation by the Assembly, undermining the checks and balances integral to governance. citeturn0search13

These allegations culminated in the Assembly’s decision to proceed with impeachment, with the second reading of the motion passed amidst heightened tensions.

The Abduction of Speaker Amaewhule

The legislative session took a violent turn when armed individuals forcibly entered the Assembly premises, disrupting proceedings and abducting Speaker Martin Amaewhule. Eyewitnesses report that the assailants overpowered security personnel, creating pandemonium as lawmakers and staff scrambled for safety. The whereabouts of the Speaker remain unknown, and no group has claimed responsibility for the abduction.

Nyesom Wike’s Fiery Accusations

Adding fuel to the fire, former Governor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has publicly accused Governor Fubara of orchestrating the impeachment saga. In a vehement statement, Wike declared, “I brought you to power with blood, and I will take you out with blood,” suggesting a deep betrayal and hinting at potential retribution.

Wike further criticized Fubara for allegedly reneging on a peace deal brokered by President Bola Tinubu, accusing the governor of surrounding himself with adversaries and sidelining loyalists. He also condemned the seizure of lawmakers’ allowances, labeling it unjust and a catalyst for the current unrest. citeturn0search5

Reactions from Key Stakeholders

The abduction of the Speaker and the impeachment proceedings have elicited strong reactions from various quarters:

• Rivers State Government: Officials have dismissed the impeachment notice, accusing lawmakers of stalling the implementation of a Supreme Court judgment and acting on ulterior motives. citeturn0search0
• Opposition Lawmakers’ Coalition: A coalition of opposition lawmakers has labeled the impeachment attempt as invalid, urging the public to disregard what they term as legislative overreach. citeturn0search0
• Ijaw Youth Council (IYC): The IYC has vowed to resist any plot to impeach Governor Fubara, alleging that Wike, through his allies, is behind the efforts to remove the governor. They claim the crisis stems from Fubara’s refusal to cede control of the state’s resources to Wike. citeturn0search15

Legal and Constitutional Implications

The unfolding events raise critical questions about the rule of law and constitutional governance in Rivers State:

• Role of the Judiciary: With the Chief Judge reportedly on vacation, concerns arise about the legality of constituting an investigative panel to probe the governor, as mandated by law. Legal experts argue that only a substantive Chief Judge has the authority to set up such a panel, potentially stalling the impeachment process. citeturn0search0
• Legislative Authority: The abduction of the Speaker poses a significant threat to the independence and functionality of the legislative arm, potentially leading to a constitutional crisis if the Assembly cannot convene to address pressing matters.

Calls for Calm and Resolution

As tensions escalate, there are growing calls for restraint and dialogue:

• Civil Society Organizations: Advocacy groups are urging all parties to prioritize the state’s stability and the welfare of its citizens, calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities and the initiation of peace talks.
• Traditional and Religious Leaders: Community leaders are appealing for calm, emphasizing the need for unity and the resolution of disputes through lawful and peaceful means.

Conclusion

The abduction of Speaker Martin Amaewhule amid impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara marks a perilous juncture in Rivers State’s political landscape. The convergence of legislative actions, executive disputes, and extrajudicial interventions threatens the state’s democratic foundations. It is imperative for all stakeholders to adhere to constitutional provisions, engage in constructive dialogue, and seek peaceful resolutions to prevent further descent into anarchy.

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