The oil-rich state of Rivers is preparing for a court ruling that could potentially resolve the political dispute between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike.
The 10th Rivers State House of Assembly has been plagued by conflict between Fubara and Wike, resulting in a divided legislature. The assembly has become a breeding ground for dissent, with a three-member Fubara-backed faction and a larger faction of 27 lawmakers supporting Wike.
Victor Oko-Jumbo, the second speaker backed by Fubara, obtained a court order preventing Wike's allies from claiming membership in the assembly. The Rivers State High Court also nullified all resolutions made by pro-Wike lawmakers after they defected to the All Progressives Congress.The pro-Wike lawmakers appealed the decision, but the appellate court upheld the trial court's order and instructed the parties to maintain the current status quo until the appeal is resolved. The appellate court recently held a second hearing on the matter and will announce the judgment at a later date.
Last week, the crisis escalated into street violence between supporters of Governor Fubara and Mr. Wike, resulting in the deaths of two individuals, including a police officer. As a result, the police have taken control of all 23 local government secretariats in the state.
Uwemedimo Nwoko, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, emphasized the importance of a clear decision from the appellate court to avoid speculation and conjecture. He stated that the impact of the judgment will depend on the court's ruling, whether it fully or partially agrees with the trial court's decision.