Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has embarked on a resolute stance against the recent defections of 26 House of Assembly members from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
In a display of determination, Governor Fubara emphasized that the defectors shall not regain their seats, even in light of a court order for their reinstatement.
During a visit by esteemed opinion leaders, women, and youths from Etche and Omuma Local Government Areas, led by Ogbakor Etche, to the Government House in Port Harcourt, Governor Fubara urged the former lawmakers, known for their allegiance to former governor Nyesom Wike, to awaken from their slumber and witness the smooth sailing of the state’s governance.
Governor Fubara stated that the seats of the former Speaker of the 10th Assembly of the State House of Assembly, Martin Amaewhule, and the other defectors, shall remain vacant.
Dismissing what he deemed as mere ranting and futile noise-making from delusional individuals, the governor reaffirmed that his administration has already commenced the meticulous preparation of the 2025 Appropriation Bill. Education, healthcare, and agriculture have been designated as priority areas within the upcoming budget.
“Agriculture is a vital sector that we have pledged to address in our forthcoming 2025 budget, which is currently in the works. Disregard the antics of those who are lost in their delusions”.
“They mistakenly believe that we are still in a state of slumber. Let me clarify this once and for all, regardless of their whereabouts”.
“We are all aware of how they defected to the APC. And how did they defect? It was by the grace of God. However, this grave mistake they made has led them astray, and they shall remain in that state.”
Governor Fubara expressed his initial intention to assist the defectors, citing past acts of generosity towards them, including the payment of their children’s school fees and rent. Nonetheless, he highlighted the consequences of their actions, particularly the declaration of their seats as vacant, which occurred in December 2023.
“While I initially intended to extend a helping hand to them, as we are all interconnected, our disagreements have brought us to this point. They believed they were being cunned in their maneuvering.
“At present, I am focused on preparing my budget for the year 2025, which I plan to present shortly.
“Do not allow anyone to deceive you. They may put on a show for the media, but behind closed doors, they shed tears. Such is the truth of the matter.”
Governor Fubara further pledged his commitment to prioritizing quality healthcare and education for the citizens of Rivers State.
“It is imperative that our children receive an education of the highest quality. Even if private schools are beyond reach, we must ensure that our public schools maintain exceptional standards. Similarly, we must have access to government-owned healthcare facilities that provide outstanding services.
“Even if private hospitals are financially unattainable, the public healthcare institutions, staffed by qualified professionals, can provide equivalent care. This is the essence of our vision.”
