Wike: I won’t stop Rivers assembly from performing its duties

Nyesom Wike, minister of the federal capital territory (FCT), says he will not interfere in the duties of the Rivers state house of assembly.

The Rivers house of assembly has been gripped by a power struggle between Siminalayi Fubara, governor of the state and Wike, his predecessor.

After their fallout in 2023, 27 lawmakers loyal to Wike clashed with Fubara, with tensions peaking when the assembly complex was torched in October 2023 amid impeachment rumours.

On March 12, the pro-Wike faction, led by Martin Amaewhule, the speaker, locked Fubara out of the assembly, blocking his bid to re-present the 2025 budget as ordered by a supreme court ruling.

Wike has since taunted Fubara, hinting at impeachment if the governor flouts the law.

On March 14, the lawmakers adjourned sitting indefinitely with Wike defending the assembly’s stance.

Speaking during a thanksgiving/civic reception in Asari-Toru LGA of the state on Saturday, Wike said he made every effort to ensure a smooth transition of power to Fubara after his time as governor.

“Let me tell you I’m not going to stop the assembly from performing their constitutional duty. The assembly should be allowed to perform its constitutional duty. People who love peace don’t threaten people,” he said.

“Assembly people should do their work. Whatever they deem necessary that is  constitutional they should do. I’m not going to stop anybody from carrying out his or her powers. I will not do that.

“It is not to abuse us. You can abuse me as much as you want, and let me tell you, I have never bothered myself because abuse does not kill anybody. What is important is the result. Is it not?

“Who has high blood pressure now? Not them? We we dey sit down dey enjoy. They have high blood pressure. This is what I was avoiding. I said look, don’t go through this route. They told you to seize assembly members’ salaries and allowances for more than one year.

“These people have no income to pay their children’s school fees or feed their families, and you were jubilating. People are encouraging you, and nothing will happen. Something has happened.”