The apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has applauded the recent Supreme Court ruling on the legal dispute between Rivers State Governor Siminialayi Fubara and the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Martin Chike Amaewhule, alongside 26 other lawmakers.
The court’s dismissal of Governor Fubara’s case (SC/CV/1071/2024) has been described as a victory for democracy and constitutional order.
In a statement signed by its Deputy President General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, Ohanaeze reaffirmed Amaewhule’s legitimacy as Speaker and urged Governor Fubara to accept the ruling in good faith.
“This judgment is more than a legal pronouncement; it is a call for cooperation, adherence to the constitution, and responsible governance,” the statement read.
The group cautioned the governor against continued resistance, warning that failing to work with the Assembly could jeopardize his administration before the end of his tenure in 2027.
Ohanaeze blamed political influencers around Fubara for his current challenges, accusing them of derailing his leadership and advising him against heeding President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s reconciliatory efforts.
“These individuals have misled him into disregarding President Tinubu’s counsel, which was aimed at restoring peace in Rivers State. His preference for legal battles over political dialogue undermines the broader interest of governance,” Isiguzoro stated.
The group further stressed that the governor’s legal battles have only reinforced the Assembly’s legitimacy and called on him to desist from actions that threaten constitutional order.
“By persisting in these legal confrontations, Governor Fubara has, knowingly or unknowingly, affirmed the legitimacy of the Assembly. His continued defiance of constitutional principles, including his reliance on figures like Oko Jumbo to fuel discord, is a dangerous precedent,” the statement added.
Ohanaeze warned that if the governor refuses to change course, he risks political isolation and damage to his legacy.
“The Supreme Court ruling serves as a clear directive—Governor Fubara must embrace collaboration, accountability, and respect for democratic institutions. The sooner he aligns with the will of the people through their elected representatives, the better for his administration’s legacy,” the group emphasized.
Concluding its statement, Ohanaeze urged the governor to prioritize reconciliation with the Assembly leadership for the sake of stability and effective governance in Rivers State.
“We call on Governor Fubara to abandon confrontation and work towards unity, mutual respect, and a shared vision with Rt. Hon. Martin Chike Amaewhule. Only through collective effort can Rivers State achieve lasting peace and development,” the statement concluded.