In a surprise turn of events, a new Speaker was announced today for the Rivers State House of Assembly. In a live Facebook video attributed to a known Fubara loyalist, Mr. Jay Martins, Hon. Victor Oko Jumbo declared himself the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly.
Joining Hon. Jumbo was Hon. Goodboy Sokari, who was announced as the Leader of the legislative assembly.
This development comes just days after Governor Fubara announced during a courtesy visit from Bayelsa State stakeholders, led by former Governor Seriake Dickson, that he had derecognized the House Assembly led by Hon. Martins Amaewuele.
Recall that Governor Fubara has been at odds with the Amaewuele-led House of Assembly members, who have repeatedly overridden his veto to pass bills in the State.
Last year, political tensions escalated in the state following an impeachment attempt on Governor Fubara by the Amaewuele-led Assembly members, perceived to be loyal to former Governor Nyesom Wike, resulting in the burning down of the Rivers State House of Assembly.
More details shortly.