Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the prominent Igbo socio-cultural organization led by Chief Jackson Omenazu, has strongly criticized Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara for allegedly undermining democratic processes and governance in the state. The group voiced concerns over the governor’s actions, labeling them a threat to the peace, unity, and democracy of Rivers State.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Deputy President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, and the National Publicity Secretary/Spokesman, Chief Chinenyeze Thompson Ohia, condemned the governor’s approach in working with a three-member House of Assembly, asserting that this undermines democratic values. They argued that Rt. Hon. Martin Chike Amaewhule is the legitimate Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly and praised the legislature for standing firm in its commitment to democratic principles.
The group also expressed support for the Amaewhule-led Assembly’s bold move in overriding Governor Fubara’s veto on three crucial bills: the Rivers State Education (Return of Schools) Amendment Bill, the Rivers Electricity Market Bill, and the Rivers State Commission of Inquiry Bill, 2024. According to Ohanaeze Ndigbo, these bills were presented to the governor over a month ago, with the aim of improving the socio-economic welfare of Rivers citizens, particularly the disadvantaged and marginalized groups.
In the statement, Ohanaeze Ndigbo stressed that under Nigerian law, Rt. Hon. Amaewhule is the rightful and authentic Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly. They called on Governor Fubara to stop creating unnecessary political confusion and strife, and instead prioritize unity and peace for the good of the people of Rivers State. The group expressed grave concern over the governor’s refusal to approve these essential bills, which they believe are designed to improve the living conditions of the state’s impoverished populations.
The organization also expressed their dismay over the Governor’s presentation of the 2025 Appropriation Bill to a select group of individuals—Victor Oko-Jumbo, Adolphus Timothy, and Sokari Goodboy. Ohanaeze Ndigbo described this action as perplexing and raised doubts about whether it genuinely reflects the interests of the Rivers populace.
Furthermore, Ohanaeze Ndigbo commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his efforts in maintaining a balanced political environment in the state, which enabled the Rt. Hon. Martin Chike Amaewhule-led House of Assembly to continue its legislative work. The group underscored their unwavering support for the Amaewhule-led Assembly, affirming their commitment to democracy, citizen welfare, and sound governance for the betterment of Rivers State.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo concluded by warning that the actions of the executive branch, under Governor Fubara, which attempt to encroach on legislative duties, pose a direct challenge to the democratic foundations of both Rivers State and Nigeria as a whole. The organization reaffirmed its full support for Rt. Hon. Amaewhule and the Rivers State House of Assembly in their mission to defend democratic values and ensure that the rights and welfare of the state’s citizens are upheld.
