River Crisis: Legal Perspective on Governor Fubara’s Visit to Assembly Quarters
Written by Deborah Oyinloye on May 10, 2024
In a recent development concerning the Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara’s visit to the state’s House of Assembly quarters, Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Paul Ananaba, clarified that no legal restrictions barred the governor from such visits.
The unplanned visit by Governor Fubara to the quarters, where the members of the legislative body reside under the leadership of Martin Amaewhule, has sparked varied reactions. Some lawmakers speculated on the governor’s intentions, claiming ulterior motives for the unannounced visit.
Contrary to these speculations, Ananaba emphasized that Fubara’s visit was within the bounds of the law. Speaking on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief, Ananaba reiterated, “That facility is a government facility. I don’t know anything in the law that stops the governor from going to visit the residential quarters.”
Although concerns were raised by Amaewhule, the speaker of a group of lawmakers, alleging that the visit signaled plans to demolish the quarters, Ananaba provided assurance, stating, “The speaker is just entertaining some fears, and I am sure the governor will not go to demolish [the structure]. If he demolishes, it is Rivers’ money he would use.”
Ananaba attributed the tensions between Governor Fubara and the lawmakers to a lack of political identity, suggesting underlying issues beyond the visit itself.
Following Fubara’s visit, some lawmakers maintained a vigil on the premises, expressing their determination not to relent. Reports indicate that some have even begun vacating their detached duplexes out of fear of impending demolition.
In response to the situation, Amaewhule is scheduled to hold a briefing later in the day to address concerns and provide further clarity.
Governor Fubara, justifying his visit, stated that it aimed to assess the condition of the structures for potential rehabilitation work to ensure their habitability.
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Author: Deborah Oyinloye
With an interest in media, Deborah aims to impart the lives of people positively.
