Tensions are escalating in Rivers State as the State House of Assembly finds itself divided into two factions, both holding parallel sessions this morning.
As of this report, lawmakers are arriving at the Assembly Quarters under heavy security. Speaker Martin Amaewhule was seen entering the chamber, while Victor Oko-Jumbo is also set to preside over a session to screen a commissioner nominee.
On Sunday night, the Oko-Jumbo-led faction, loyal to Governor Siminalayi Fubara, sent a letter inviting commissioner nominee Emmanuel Frank-Fubara for screening and confirmation.
The pro-Fubara lawmakers are meeting in an improvised chamber at the Government House in Port Harcourt, while the pro-Wike legislators are convening at the State Assembly official quarters on Aba Road.
The agenda for the Amaewhule-led faction remains unclear, but this marks their first session since the Court of Appeal recognized them as legitimate members of the House.
These developments come after the State House of Assembly Complex was bombed in October 2023 and a failed attempt by 27 lawmakers loyal to the FCT Minister to impeach Governor Fubara.
During a recent plenary session, the pro-Wike lawmakers announced their defection from the Peoples Democratic Party to the All Progressives Congress, intensifying the political crisis in the state. The 27 lawmakers are now facing a legal battle to maintain their positions.
