Lawmakers loyal to former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike have given a condition to meet with Governor Siminalayi Fubara. The 27 lawmakers, led by Speaker Martin Amaewhule, are demanding that Fubara properly channel his invitation to them, rather than through social media
The development comes after Fubara invited the lawmakers to a meeting at the Government House to discuss key issues, including the provision of sitting space for the Assembly, payment of outstanding allowances, and the presentation of the 2025 budget.
However, the lawmakers are unwilling to attend the meeting unless Fubara meets their condition. One of the lawmakers, Isaiah Opuende, criticized Fubara for inviting them via social media, stating that it was surprising the governor would call them after telling them to “dey their dey” (a Nigerian Pidgin English phrase meaning “mind your business”)
The lawmakers’ stance has been supported by former local government chairmen who served during Wike’s tenure. They condemned threats by non-state actors over the political crisis in the state and called on Fubara to obey the Supreme Court judgment
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has hailed Fubara’s invitation to the lawmakers, describing it as a welcome development. The party expressed hope that the move would lead to a resolution of the crisis between the two arms of government in the state.