A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Tonye Cole, has condemned the denial of access to Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, at the State House of Assembly, describing it as an outright declaration of war.
Governor Fubara had arrived at the Assembly complex on the morning of Wednesday, March 12, 2025, to present the state’s 2025 budget but was reportedly prevented from entering as the gate was locked.
However, the House of Assembly has dismissed claims that the governor was deliberately blocked from presenting the budget. The Assembly’s spokesperson and Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Enemi Alabo George, refuted Fubara’s allegations, calling them a “comedy skit” designed to tarnish the lawmakers’ image.
George stated that the Assembly had invited the governor to submit the budget following the Supreme Court’s judgment on March 3.
“We were the ones who, immediately after that judgment, urged the governor to bring his appropriation bill. Our actions were in the best interest of Rivers people, as we wanted to avoid any setbacks that could harm the state,” George explained.
Speaking in an interview with Arise News, Tonye Cole warned that the ongoing political crisis in the state would deter investment and cause hardship for residents.
According to him, the move to lock out Fubara was a symbolic act, signaling that while he holds the title of governor, real power may have shifted elsewhere.
“I look forward to the day we will gather to discuss progress in Rivers State. What we are witnessing is nothing but a power struggle, and at the end of the day, it is the people who suffer. Investors will stay away, and the state will bear the brunt,” Cole stated.
He further noted that a functional government should not experience such conflicts between the executive and legislature, emphasizing that the standoff was a sign of deep-seated political tension.
“This is a full-blown declaration of war on both sides, and unfortunately, it is the people of Rivers State who will pay the price,” Cole added.
The situation underscores the escalating political unrest in Rivers State, raising concerns about governance stability and its impact on economic growth.
