President Bola Tinubu has stepped in to resolve the ongoing political impasse in Rivers State, issuing eight directives aimed at bringing an end to the weeks-long dispute between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and current FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.
The directive was announced at during a high level closed door meeting with the two prominent figures and other stakeholders of Rivers state.
The dispute, fueled by factionalism within the state’s ruling party, had led to a series of legal challenges, impeachment attempts, and legislative disagreements.
Following President Tinubu’s mediation, a set of eight directives were established to resolve the impasse:
1. Legal Hostilities Ceased: Both sides committed to immediately withdrawing all court cases related to the political crisis.
2. Impeachment Dropped: The impeachment proceedings initiated against Governor Fubara were nullified.
3. Legislative Recognition: The leadership of the Rivers State House of Assembly, including 27 members who resigned from the PDP, were formally recognized.
4. Funding Restored: The Governor was directed to resume full funding of the House of Assembly and reinstate salaries and benefits for all members and staff.
5. Legislative Independence: The Assembly was granted the freedom to choose its venue for legislative sessions without interference from the Governor.
6. Budget Resubmission: Governor Fubara was tasked with resubmitting the state budget to a properly constituted House of Assembly.
7. Executive Appointments: Commissioners who resigned due to the crisis were to have their nominations resubmitted for approval.
8. Local Governance Restored: The recent dissolution of local governments was declared null and void, ensuring their continued operation.
