A political storm is brewing in Rivers State as the defection of 27 lawmakers loyal to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, sends shockwaves through the state’s political landscape. Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, former National Publicity Secretary of the defunct New People’s Democratic Party, nPDP, has voiced his concerns, highlighting the potential ramifications of this mass exodus.
Eze articulated that the lawmakers, previously aligned with Wike, now appear to be mere pawns in the state legislature, obediently following Wike’s directives, regardless of the implications for the constituents they represent. This move, according to Eze, serves as a compelling indication of Wike’s diminishing hold on the state’s political structure.
By questioning Wike’s leadership ethics and character, Eze emphasized the self-inflicted damage inflicted upon Wike’s political ambitions. Furthermore, he suggested that Wike’s decision to enlist the support of the 27 lawmakers could ultimately backfire, jeopardizing their positions as per Section 109 of the constitution.
Calls have emerged from various quarters, urging the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct elections to fill the void left by the departing lawmakers. Eze expressed confidence that this proposed electoral process would seal the fate of the defectors, preventing their return to the legislative assembly.
In a symbolic gesture, Eze extended a tongue-in-cheek “welcome” to the lawmakers to what he termed “the cancerous political party,” a subtle dig at Wike’s comments about an opposing political entity. Eze further underlined a resolve among party loyalists to safeguard the party from perceived threats, emphasizing their commitment to its stability and integrity.
Amidst the escalating political turmoil, Eze appealed to the National Assembly to intervene swiftly, advocating for the assumption of legislative responsibilities in Rivers State. This urgent plea stemmed from the impending budgetary matters awaiting approval, underlining the need to avert potential economic and administrative setbacks in the state.
Directing his counsel to Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Eze urged proactive measures to counter Wike’s influence decisively, stressing the necessity of dismantling Wike’s political stronghold without delay. Additionally, he advised Fubara to contemplate the dissolution of local government councils and the state executive council, presenting an opportunity to realign leadership structures in the state’s best interests.
Eze cautioned that failure to seize this pivotal moment could result in missed opportunities, with only the Governor to hold accountable for any ensuing repercussions.
The shifts in the political landscape of Rivers State present a decisive moment, with far-reaching implications for its governance and future trajectory.
