The political crisis in Rivers State has deepened, with Tony Okocha, Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, calling on Governor Siminalayi Fubara to either resign or face impeachment. This demand comes amidst a backdrop of escalating tensions between the governor and the state's House of Assembly, largely influenced by a faction loyal to former governor Nyesom Wike.

Okocha's statement, made during a press briefing in Port Harcourt, accuses Governor Fubara of abusing the rule of law, particularly concerning the invitation extended to pro-Wike members of the Rivers House of Assembly for a meeting. Okocha characterized this invitation as a "Greek gift," suggesting ulterior motives behind the governor's attempt at reconciliation. The invitation followed ultimatums issued by the Assembly, demanding the presentation of the 2025 budget and the dismissal of commissioners and board members not screened by the House.

The genesis of the current crisis can be traced back to a power struggle between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. This conflict has manifested in the state's legislature, where a majority of lawmakers remain loyal to Wike. The Supreme Court's recent judgment, intended to resolve the political turmoil, appears to have instead exacerbated the situation, with both factions interpreting the ruling to their advantage.

Okocha has been a vocal critic of Governor Fubara, previously advocating for his removal from office due to what he perceives as a disregard for the constitution and the separation of powers. He has accused the governor of acting like a dictator and disrespecting the legislative arm of government. According to Okocha, Fubara's earlier claims that the Assembly members were non-existent demonstrated a fundamental misunderstanding of the roles and responsibilities of the different branches of government.

Adding to the complexity, the Martin Amaewhule-led Rivers State House of Assembly has criticized Governor Fubara for extending an invitation to a crucial meeting via social media. The Assembly insists on a formal communication through proper channels. The meeting, aimed at addressing key issues such as the 2025 budget, lawmakers' allowances, and a designated sitting space, has been met with skepticism by the pro-Wike lawmakers, who demand due process.

Isaiah Opuende, a lawmaker representing Akuku-Toru Constituency 2, voiced the Assembly's concerns, questioning the legitimacy of an invitation disseminated through social media. He alluded to past comments made by Governor Fubara, signaling a shift in the Assembly's stance and a determination to assert its authority. This rejection mirrors similar reactions from former local government chairmen aligned with Wike, further illustrating the deep-seated divisions within the state's political landscape.

Despite the ongoing tensions, the Rivers State chapter of the APC has welcomed Governor Fubara's invitation to the lawmakers as a potential step toward reconciliation. The party, however, remains divided, with factions aligned with both Wike and Emeka Beke offering differing perspectives on the situation. Chibuike Ikenga, the state publicity secretary of the APC, expressed optimism that the meeting could lead to lasting peace between the executive and legislative branches, while Chizi Entire, Chief of Staff to the Emeka Beke-led faction, described the development as a "win-win situation."

The political turmoil in Rivers State has drawn the attention of various groups, including the Ijaw National Congress (INC) and the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), who have warned against any attempts to impeach Governor Fubara. They cautioned that such actions could destabilize oil production in the region. As the crisis continues to unfold, the future of Rivers State remains uncertain, with the potential for further political instability and disruption.