In a startling revelation, Dr. George Nwaeke, the immediate past Head of Service of Rivers State, has accused suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara of masterminding the bombing of the State House of Assembly and plotting economic sabotage aimed at undermining President Bola Tinubu’s administration. These allegations have intensified the political crisis in the oil-rich state, raising concerns about governance and security.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on March 28, 2025, Nwaeke detailed events leading up to the March 18 suspension of Governor Fubara and the State Assembly. He claimed that Fubara, through his Chief of Staff, Edison Ehie, orchestrated the bombing of the State House of Assembly complex in 2023 to thwart impeachment proceedings initiated by lawmakers loyal to Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike. Nwaeke stated, “I was there with them when a bag of money was handed over to Edison for that operation, though I do not know the amount inside.” He challenged Fubara to an open confrontation, asserting his readiness to provide more details. citeturn0search9
Beyond the Assembly bombing, Nwaeke alleged that Governor Fubara planned to sabotage critical oil infrastructure to destabilize the national economy. He recounted a conversation where Fubara purportedly declared his control over security in Rivers and Bayelsa States, suggesting that at the appropriate time, they would instruct local militants to act, with funding not being an issue. Nwaeke linked this to Fubara’s public statement: “I will tell the boys what to do at the appropriate time,” indicating a potential orchestration of pipeline vandalism. citeturn0search19
These accusations come in the wake of President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State on March 18, 2025. The President suspended Governor Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all members of the State House of Assembly for six months, citing escalating political instability and recent pipeline vandalism. Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas was appointed as the Sole Administrator to restore order. citeturn0news30
In response to Nwaeke’s allegations, Governor Fubara has vehemently denied any wrongdoing, labeling the claims as false and asserting that Nwaeke has been compromised. Fubara maintains that he has always acted in the best interests of Rivers State and its people. citeturn0search13
The political turmoil in Rivers State has elicited mixed reactions. Some stakeholders support the federal intervention, viewing it as necessary to maintain stability in a state critical to Nigeria’s oil production. Others, including the Nigerian Bar Association, have criticized the suspension of elected officials, arguing that a declaration of emergency does not automatically dissolve or suspend elected state governments. citeturn0news30
As investigations continue, the people of Rivers State await clarity on these serious allegations. The outcome will significantly impact the state’s political landscape and its role in Nigeria’s economy. Ensuring transparency and adherence to the rule of law is paramount to resolving the crisis and restoring public confidence in the state’s governance.
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