Rivers: Tension Rises as Siminalayi Fubara and Supporters Consider Next Moves

The political landscape in Rivers State remains tense as Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his loyalists weigh their options following a significant setback at the Supreme Court. The court's recent rulings have reshaped the political dynamics in the state, leaving both sides of the ongoing crisis between Fubara and the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, in a state of uncertainty.

The Supreme Court's verdict, delivered last Friday, has had far-reaching implications for the state's political future. The judgment invalidated the local government elections held on October 5, 2024, curtailed Fubara's influence over the state legislature, and upheld the suspension of federal allocations to the state. These decisions have effectively weakened Fubara's political structure, while strengthening the position of Wike's allies, including the reinstated 27 lawmakers loyal to him.

The reinstated lawmakers, who had been sidelined for months, are now expected to push for a return to the status quo, with some speculating that they may pursue the impeachment of Governor Fubara. This possibility has heightened anxiety within the governor's camp, as sources suggest that the process could be expedited to remove Fubara from office.

The crisis, which began 16 months ago, has deeply divided the state, with both factions vying for control of its political direction. The Supreme Court's ruling has further intensified the situation, leaving Fubara's supporters in despair while Wike's allies celebrate their legal victory.

Amid the uncertainty, the Ijaw National Congress (INC) and the Pan-Niger Delta Elders Forum (PANDEF) have called for calm. Professor Benjamin Okaba, President of the INC, stated that the judgment is not the final word on the matter and urged stakeholders to remain peaceful. He emphasized that the INC would continue to operate within the law but would take appropriate action if injustice prevails.

Similarly, Chief Anabs Sara-Igbe of PANDEF expressed concerns over the suspension of the state's allocations, warning that such actions could provoke unrest. He also questioned the legitimacy of the reinstated lawmakers, given their defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC), and called for a careful review of the judgment's implications.

For Governor Fubara, the legal battle is far from over. The defection case involving the 27 lawmakers, which was not addressed in the Supreme Court's ruling, remains pending at the Federal High Court in Port Harcourt. This case could provide a lifeline for Fubara, as it challenges the lawmakers' eligibility to remain in office after switching parties. However, the governor's opponents may seek to expedite his impeachment before the defection case is resolved.

Despite the challenges, Fubara remains resolute. Sources close to the governor reveal that he is determined to fight on, expressing confidence that the situation is not yet over. His supporters believe that a political solution, such as defecting to the APC, could offer a way out of the crisis, though this would come with its own set of conditions and consequences.