A civil society organization, the Centre for Social Justice, Equity and Transparency (CSJET), has submitted a petition to the House of Representatives, urging an investigation and the dismissal of Nyesom Wike as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. The petition alleges his involvement in a plot to impeach the Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara.
During Tuesday’s plenary session, the Green Chamber acknowledged and adopted the petition, which also demands a probe into the actions of security agencies, particularly the Nigerian Police Force, who are accused of attempting to assassinate the governor.
The CSJET’s petition, dated October 30, 2023, and addressed to the Deputy Spokesman of the House, Philip Agbese, also condemns the illegal suspension of members of the Rivers State House of Assembly and the arson attack on the State Assembly Complex by anti-Fubara factions in the state.
Additionally, the CSJET strongly criticizes the attempts by certain lawmakers to impeach Governor Fubara, describing it as a groundless and baseless move aimed at derailing his developmental plans for the state.
According to excerpts from the petition, “We are a non-governmental, non-profit, and non-partisan organization registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission. Our primary objective is to become a key influencer in promoting social justice in public life, through policy engagement and interventions that foster economic, political, and social reforms, enhance rights, and ensure sustainable livelihoods.
“We write to bring your attention to the escalating crisis in the Rivers State House of Assembly and the entire Rivers State Government. We seek your intervention in resolving the turmoil that has gripped the state.
“Earlier this week, an attempted assassination on the governor of Rivers State was foiled, along with concerted efforts to impeach him by the Rivers State House of Assembly.
“Details of our petition are as follows: On Sunday, October 29, 2023, it was reported that the Rivers State House of Assembly was set ablaze by unidentified political thugs who were apparently not in favor of the governor’s impeachment. The governor himself narrowly escaped the assassination attempt, which took place during his visit to the Assembly Complex. Police personnel, believed to have been compromised, shot live bullets at the governor in an attempt to take his life.
“This incident occurred at the House of Assembly Complex, situated opposite the Headquarters of the State Command Police on Moscow Road, Port Harcourt. Although plans for Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s impeachment were already finalized, there were continued efforts to end his life. Immediately after the session, lawmakers, accompanied by heavy security escorts, were seen leaving the premises at about 8.15 am on Monday.
“After the gunshots and tear gas were fired, chaos ensued as policemen pursued people, including workers in nearby offices. The Speaker of the Rivers House of Assembly, Mr. Martin Amoewhule, chaired the session and resolved to initiate the impeachment process.
“During the sitting, lawmakers also suspended the House leader, Mr. Edison Enie, along with some of their colleagues known to be loyal to the governor. Twenty-four members of the Assembly appended their signatures to remove Mr. Ehie and others.
“The governor, who was present to observe the proceedings, was attacked with tear gas and water cannons. As of press time, protests have erupted outside the complex, with supporters of the governor vehemently opposing his planned impeachment. Rivers State has made significant advances in development and stability under the leadership of Governor Fubara.
“The governor has spearheaded policies and initiatives that have had a positive impact on the lives of the citizens. Political disputes and power struggles should not impede progress, and the people’s mandate must be respected.”
The CSJET’s petition to the House of Representatives represents a significant step towards addressing the crisis in Rivers State. The outcome of the investigation and the subsequent actions taken by the House will undoubtedly shape the political landscape of the state and determine the course of governance moving forward.
