Rt. Hon. Martin Amaewhule, the factional Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, has rebuffed a surprise visit by Governor Siminalayi Fubara to the assembly quarters, expressing concerns that the governor may have intentions to demolish the premises.
In a statement following the governor’s unexpected stopover at the facility, Amaewhule asserted that the buildings in the assembly quarters were still relatively new and not in need of renovation. He questioned the governor’s motives for visiting without prior invitation, suggesting that the governor’s actions might signal plans for demolition similar to what occurred with the Rivers State House of Assembly Complex.
Accompanied by a delegation including Major Jack, the House Leader, Samuel Nwanosike, the Chairman of Ikwerre Local Government Area, Barr George Ariolu, and the Obio/Akpor LGA Chair, Amaewhule expressed dismay at the governor’s uninvited presence.
Amaewhule emphasized that the assembly quarters, constructed during the previous administration and commissioned in August 2022, were structurally sound and did not require any intervention from the governor. He urged supporters of democracy to hold the governor accountable for his actions, accusing him of disregarding constitutional provisions and resorting to authoritarian tactics.
Asserting his legitimacy as the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Amaewhule highlighted a Federal High Court judgment affirming his position and the membership of the 27 lawmakers. He called on stakeholders to uphold the rule of law and resist any attempts to undermine the authority of the legislative arm of the state.