The Initiative for Transparent Strategy and Good Leadership (ITSGL) has criticized remarks made by Senate President Godswill Akpabio concerning the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State.
Akpabio had referred to Hon. Martin Amaewhule as the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly and acknowledged 26 others as authentic members, sparking controversy.
Akpabio made these comments during a public lecture in Port Harcourt, held to celebrate the birthday of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Chief Nyesom Wike. He suggested that if Governor Siminialayi Fubara refuses to cooperate with the Amaewhule-led Assembly, the lawmakers would proceed with their constitutional duties, stating that not even a court could prevent them.
Reacting to the statements, ITSGL President General, Barr. Chizy Enyi, condemned Akpabio’s comments as divisive and detrimental to peace in the state. Enyi noted that Akpabio should have remained neutral as Senate President, especially since Amaewhule and the others had defected from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), which, according to Section 109 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), invalidates their membership in the Assembly.
Enyi questioned Akpabio’s reference to actions the lawmakers might take against Governor Fubara that courts could not halt, hinting that the statement likely alludes to impeachment.
“We are deeply perturbed that such a dangerous and unnecessary statement was made by the Senate President, especially when the matters he referenced are already in litigation. Martin Amaewhule and his associates are no longer legitimate members of the Rivers State House of Assembly after defecting to the APC,” Enyi stated.
Enyi further expressed concerns that Akpabio’s comments might escalate political tension in Rivers State, accusing him of attempting to support Wike in leveraging federal power as compensation for Wike’s backing of his Senate presidency.
“Senator Akpabio’s remarks seem designed to incite political instability in Rivers State, undermining the integrity of his office,” Enyi said.
Enyi also criticized Akpabio’s reported statement that “Nigerians need more betrayals like Wike,” saying such remarks degrade the office of the Senate President. He called on Rivers residents to rally around Governor Fubara and resist perceived external interference.
“We urge Rivers people to stay united and resolute against distractions and enemies of the state. The Senate President’s actions have only brought disrepute to his office,” Enyi concluded.
