The Rivers State House of Assembly remains embroiled in crisis as the police once again assumed control of the complex on Tuesday. Reports indicate that members aligned with opposing factions held separate sittings at different locations, exacerbating the already tense situation.
At the assembly complex, four police patrol vans were positioned at the entrance, and the Moscow Road Axis witnessed restricted movement of people and vehicles. An Armoured Personnel Carrier patrolled the vicinity, accompanied by scores of armed operatives strategically stationed in key locations. The rationale behind the heightened security measures remains unclear, but it coincided with reported sittings by lawmakers on Tuesday.
Allegedly, 25 lawmakers, led by House Speaker Martin Amaewhule, convened early on Tuesday to address two critical matters: the suspension of the strike by the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria and a call for an investigation into the recent explosion at the Assembly that resulted in the destruction of the hallowed Chamber and numerous properties.
Conversely, lawmakers under the leadership of factional Speaker Edison Ehie expressed confidence in Governor Siminalayi Fubara during their separate sitting. Commending the governor for his developmental strides and security initiatives, the faction pledged continuous support for his consolidation and continuity agenda.
In a statement, Ehie’s faction condemned the attack on his residence and the arson at the House of Assembly. They urged the governor to promptly commence rehabilitation works while emphasizing the imperative for the Inspector General of Police and other security apparatus to investigate and apprehend the culprits behind the attacks.