Rights Group Warns of Dangerous Political Plot to Paralyze Governance
The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has sounded the alarm over an alleged orchestrated plot by 27 lawmakers loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, to cripple governance in Rivers State and subvert democracy.
At the center of the controversy is Speaker Martin Amaewhule and his group of lawmakers, who abruptly adjourned the Rivers State House of Assembly indefinitely—a move HURIWA has condemned as a deliberate attempt to obstruct the governor and defy a Supreme Court ruling.
HURIWA warns that the indefinite recess is nothing short of a political weapon designed to block Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s efforts to present the 2025 budget and sabotage the scheduled local government elections in August.
“A Dangerous Plot to Plunge Rivers into Chaos” – HURIWA
In a hard-hitting statement issued on Sunday, HURIWA’s National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, accused the pro-Wike lawmakers of orchestrating a political crisis aimed at derailing governance and destabilizing Rivers State.
“It is clear that the pro-Wike camp does not want the Supreme Court judgment implemented because they are actively working against the presentation of the state budget and the scheduled LGA elections. This is a dangerous plot to plunge Rivers State into unnecessary chaos and political instability,” HURIWA declared.
The association commended Governor Fubara for his commitment to due process, noting that despite being denied access to the Assembly complex, he has continued to operate within the law.
“The governor has demonstrated good faith in implementing the Supreme Court judgment. However, the 27 lawmakers loyal to the FCT minister are deliberately obstructing governance by remaining on indefinite recess to stall the 2025 budget process,” the statement added.
HURIWA to Lawmakers: Resume Plenary or Face the Wrath of Rivers People
HURIWA issued a strong warning, stating that the indefinite adjournment is a calculated attempt to deprive Rivers residents of democratic benefits and frustrate governance.
“The Supreme Court issued clear directives for all arms of government to function within constitutional boundaries. Any delay in reconvening the Assembly amounts to defiance of the judiciary and a violation of the constitution,” HURIWA asserted.
The association further accused the lawmakers of working to reinstate former LGA chairmen and councillors—a move it described as unconstitutional and undemocratic.
“Any attempt to forcefully return these former LGA officials to office against the lawfully scheduled elections will face fierce resistance. Rivers people will not sit idly by while their rights are trampled upon,” HURIWA warned.
Wike Must Stay Out of Rivers Politics – HURIWA
In a direct message to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, HURIWA cautioned him against further interference in Rivers politics, warning that his continued meddling could lead to further political turmoil and endanger the state’s peace and security.
“As a former governor and now a federal minister, Wike must uphold democratic principles and prioritize the stability of his home state over political interests,” the group stated.
HURIWA Calls for Presidential and National Assembly Intervention
HURIWA is now calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the National Assembly, and other relevant stakeholders to intervene before Rivers State plunges into deeper crisis. The association insists that Rivers people must be allowed to enjoy democratic governance without undue political interference or disregard for judicial rulings.
Reaffirming its unwavering support for Governor Fubara and the people of Rivers State, HURIWA pledged to continue defending constitutional supremacy and the rights of citizens against political manipulation.
With the battle lines drawn, the big question remains: Will Wike’s loyalists relent and allow governance to proceed, or will Rivers State be dragged into further political instability?
