The crisis intensifies at the Rivers State House of Assembly as police regain control of the complex on Tuesday. Reports indicate that members aligned with rival factions held separate sittings at different locations, intensifying the political turmoil.
Four police patrol vans were stationed at the assembly’s entrance, imposing restrictions on the movement of people and vehicles along the Moscow Road Axis. An Armoured Personnel Carrier patrolled the vicinity, accompanied by armed operatives strategically positioned throughout the area.
The motive behind the heightened security measures remains unclear.
However, it was revealed that on Tuesday, 25 lawmakers, led by House Speaker Martin Amaewhule, convened to address issues related to the suspension of the strike by the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria.
During this session, they called on the State Commissioner for Police, Olatunji Disu, to investigate the recent explosion at the Assembly, which resulted in the destruction of the hallowed Chamber and several properties.
Police Denies Assassination Attempt on Rivers Factional Speaker
Simultaneously, lawmakers led by factional Speaker Edison Ehie convened separately. They expressed confidence in Governor Siminalayi Fubara, passing a vote of confidence and commending him for his developmental strides and security initiatives aimed at maintaining peace in the state.
In a statement signed by Legislative Aide Ken Uchendu, Ehie’s faction pledged ongoing support for the governor’s consolidation and continuity agenda.
The faction also condemned the recent attack on Ehie’s residence on Sunday night, as well as the arson at the House of Assembly. The Lawmakers urged the governor to swiftly initiate rehabilitation works to restore the damaged facilities.
“Furthermore, the house impressed on the need for the Inspector General of police, and other related security apparatus of the state to investigate these attacks and bring the culprits to book,” the statement read.
