Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
The political face-off between Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, and the lawmakers loyal to his predecessor and political godfather, Nyesom Wike, shows no sign of abating as an Executive Order marked 001-2023, has surfaced, where the Governor ordered temporary relocation of the State House of Assembly to the Government House.
The Governor issued an executive order to temporarily relocate the sitting of the State House of Assembly to the Auditorium of the Administrative section of Government House, Port Harcourt.
“This decision follows the unfortunate burning of the hallowed chambers of the State Assembly in October 2023 by hoodlums,” the document sighted by Ikengaonline read.
It further read: “On 20th day Of October 2023, a fire incident occasioned by unknown arsons, damaged the hallowed chambers of the Rivers State House of Assembly.
“That Hallowed Chambers of the Rivers State House of Assembly in its present state, is unsafe and constitutes threat to the lives of the staff and the Honourable members of Rivers State House of Assembly and thus not conducive for the business and proceedings of the Rivers State House of Assembly.
“That it is expedient to carry out urgent repairs, renovation, and reconstruction of the damaged chambers of the Rivers State House of Assembly.
“That it is further reasonable to ensure that the businesses and proceedings of the Ravers State House of Assembly are not impeded and frustrated.
“Now, therefore, I, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, the Governor of Rivers State this 30th day of October 2023, Pursuant to the powers vested on me under the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) hereby ISSUE, ORDER, AND DIRECT that all proceedings and business of Rivers State Howe of Assembly shall temporarily take place at the Auditorium, Administration Block, Government House, Port Harcourt until the repairs, renovation of reconstruction of this chambers of the Rivers State House of Assembly are completed.”
Ikengaonline had reported that the Governor had Thursday paid unscheduled visit at the Legislative quarters fueling speculations that the buildings might soon be demolished for renovation.
But the pro-Wike Speaker, Martin Amaewhule, had cried foul, telling the Governor that they did not need him there, and he should not embark on any renovation insisting that the structures built two years ago are still in good shape.
