The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has raised concerns over what it describes as an attempt by 27 lawmakers loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to destabilize governance in Rivers State and obstruct democratic processes.
HURIWA’s statement follows reports that the lawmakers, led by Speaker Martin Amaewhule, abruptly adjourned the Rivers State House of Assembly sittings indefinitely. This adjournment came shortly after Governor Siminalayi Fubara sent a request to re-present the 2025 Appropriation Bill in line with a recent Supreme Court judgment. The association contends that this move is a deliberate effort to frustrate the court’s ruling and hinder the scheduled local government elections in August.
In a statement on Sunday by HURIWA’s National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, the group accused the lawmakers of deliberately using an indefinite recess as a political weapon to block the governor’s efforts to present the budget and conduct the local government elections.
“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 stated.
The association commended Governor Fubara for adhering to the rule of law by officially notifying the Assembly of his intention to re-present the budget. It noted that despite being denied access to the Assembly complex during his last attempt, the governor has shown restraint and a commitment to due process.
“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,” HURIWA added.
: The Supreme Court’s path to stability in Rivers State
HURIWA warned that the indefinite adjournment is a calculated attempt to frustrate governance, deprive Rivers residents of democratic benefits, and sabotage the planned local government elections. The association insisted that the Supreme Court had issued clear directives for all arms of government to function within constitutional boundaries and that any delay in reconvening the Assembly amounts to defiance of the judiciary and a violation of the constitution.
“The plot to block the Supreme Court’s judgment on the budget presentation and the LGA elections will not succeed,” HURIWA declared. “The people of Rivers State are aware of these anti-democratic schemes and will resist any attempt to derail peace and progress in the state.”
The association called on the Rivers State House of Assembly to resume plenary immediately and fulfill its constitutional duty of passing the 2025 budget, stressing that prolonged inaction undermines governance and the will of the people.
HURIWA also cautioned against any covert efforts to reinstate former LGA chairmen and councillors who have already vacated office in accordance with legal provisions. It warned that any attempt to impose them on the people would face strong opposition, as Rivers residents are prepared to democratically elect new local government leaders in August.
“It is unconstitutional and undemocratic to attempt to force former LGA officials back into office against the lawfully scheduled elections. Any move to disrupt the electoral process will be met with resistance from Rivers people, who are eager to exercise their voting rights,” the statement added.
The association urged FCT Minister Nyesom Wike to refrain from encouraging his loyalists to pursue actions that could destabilize Rivers State, warning that such interference could lead to further political turmoil and threaten 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,” HURIWA stated.
The group also called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the National Assembly, and other relevant stakeholders to intervene to ensure that the rule of law prevails in Rivers State. It insisted that Rivers people should be allowed to enjoy democratic governance without undue political interference or disregard for judicial rulings.
HURIWA reaffirmed its support for Governor Fubara and the people of Rivers State in their pursuit of lawful and democratic governance. The association pledged to continue advocating for constitutional supremacy and the protection of citizens’ rights against political manipulation.
