Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has officially sworn in Barrister Emmanuel Frank-Fubara, who was recently screened and confirmed as a commissioner by the Victor Oko-Jumbo-led assembly. The swearing-in ceremony took place at the Executive Council Chambers of the Government House in Port Harcourt at approximately 5 pm.
During his address following the oath-taking, Governor Fubara stood by his decision to recognize the Oko-Jumbo-led assembly as the legitimate legislative body. He emphasized that this assembly is the lawfully recognized arm of the state’s legislature.
However, Governor Fubara did not shy away from expressing his dissatisfaction with the police’s handling of a recent bomb explosion in Port Harcourt. The governor criticized the authorities for their lack of progress in investigating the incident, which occurred several weeks ago. He suggested that the investigation had been sluggish because the suspects were not affiliated with his supporters.
“I’ve not been hearing anything and I’m wondering, after how many weeks now, the Nigeria police are still not able to come out and make a statement about the attempt by someone – who I don’t know what his name is – trying to detonate dynamite in front of Hotel Presidential,” Fubara said. “I’m still wondering why it doesn’t happen. But if it’s maybe any other thing that has to do with us, they will say they should even charge the person for terrorism.”
Governor Fubara recounted previous instances where his supporters were arrested and charged with terrorism for alleged crimes they did not commit. Despite these challenges, he affirmed his reliance on divine grace and protection to guide his governance of the state.
In a swift move following the swearing-in, Governor Fubara assigned the new commissioner to the Ministry of Finance. He explained that he had been seeking a diligent individual to oversee this crucial office. Although the new commissioner is not an accountant by profession, the governor highlighted his observation of Barrister Emmanuel Frank-Fubara’s diligence and dedication since they met during Fubara’s 2023 gubernatorial campaign.
Meanwhile, the political landscape in Rivers State continues to be tumultuous. Earlier on Monday, the Martin Amaewhule-led faction of the state lawmakers issued an ultimatum to Governor Fubara, demanding that he re-present the state’s budget for the year within seven days. This session marked their first in several months.
Governor Fubara had previously presented the budget to lawmakers loyal to him, with his current Chief of Staff Edison Ehie acting as the Speaker. Although this budget was passed and signed into law, the Amaewhule-led faction is calling for a re-presentation, adding another layer of complexity to the ongoing political crisis in the oil-rich state.
This demand for a budget re-presentation comes in the wake of a court ruling that overturned the expulsion of Amaewhule and 24 other lawmakers from the state assembly. The Rivers State High Court’s verdict has further intensified the political tensions, highlighting the deep divisions within the state’s legislative body.
As Rivers State navigates these challenging times, Governor Fubara remains steadfast in his commitment to lead with integrity and dedication, relying on both his administration and divine guidance to steer the state towards stability and progress.
