The Chief Jackson Omenazu-led Ohanaeze Ndigbo has knocked Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara over his failure to allow due process of law in the state.
The Omenazu-led group said they were desirous of having lasting peace return to Rivers State.
The apex Igbo socio-cultural group, said it is unprecedented for the governor to work with a 3-member state House of Assembly, acknowledging President Bola Tinubu’s sincere efforts to maintain a balanced political landscape in the state.
This was contained in a statement made available to journalists on Friday, jointly signed by Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, factional deputy president general of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide and Chief Chinenyeze Ohia, national publicity secretary/spokesman.
Ohanaeze said it stands in support of the leadership and membership of the 10th Rivers State House of Assembly, ably led by Martin Amaewhule.
They posited that in the eyes of the law and within the conscience of the citizenry, Amaewhule is the authentic and rightful speaker of the state House of Assembly.
It advised the state governor to cease creating confusion and unnecessary political strife in the state, but should instead prioritise the restoration of peace to the state.
The group equally hailed the Amaewhule-led House of assembly for over-riding the governor’s veto regarding three critical pieces of legislation.
“These essential bills, the Rivers State Education (Return of Schools) Amendment Bill, the Rivers Electricity Market Bill, and the Rivers State Commission of Inquiry Bill, 2024, were presented to the governor over a month ago, aimed at fostering the socio-economic welfare of all citizens, especially the marginalized and economically disadvantaged.
“By overriding the governor’s veto in strict accordance with Section 100 (6) of the constitution, the legislators have affirmed their commitment to their constitutional responsibilities and the democratic principles embedded in our collective governance.
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“It is profoundly troubling that Governor Fubara has withheld his approval of these bills, which are designed explicitly to improve the dire conditions faced by the impoverished populations of Rivers State.
“The resolve exhibited by the House of Assembly is not only commendable but necessary in the face of the governor’s apparent disregard for the pressing needs of our people.
“Furthermore, we vehemently condemn the presentation of the 2025 Appropriation Bill by Governor Fubara to Victor Oko-Jumbo, Adolphus Timothy, and Sokari Goodboy.
“This action is perplexing and raises serious concerns regarding the representation of the genuine interests of the Rivers populace,” it added.
