27 Rivers Lawmakers Launch Probe Into Post-Local Govt Election Attacks

The 27 faction members of the Rivers State House of Assembly led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule have launched investigation into the October 7 attacks on local government secretariats across the state.

It was recalled that the crisis erupted in October when violent clashes broke out during the takeover of secretariats by newly inaugurated local government chairpersons.

The attacks resulted in extensive damage to several council buildings.

On his part, Speaker Amaewhule tasked the House Committee on Public Complaints and Petitions with fast-tracking its investigation into the petitions related to the disturbances.

He cited Section 128 of the 1999 Constitution, which empowers the Assembly to conduct inquiries, and called for the committee’s report to be submitted without delay.

In a statement issued by his Special Assistant on Media, Martins Wachukwu, Amaewhule, emphasized the need for a thorough legislative probe to uncover the truth and ensure accountability.

Meanwhile, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, earlier this week, received report from his Judicial Commission of Inquiry and pledged to implement the recommendations through a white paper to deter future attacks on public infrastructure

The Governor had established a seven-member Judicial Commission of Inquiry to probe the same incidents.

Many view the competing investigations as reflection of the growing divide between Governor Fubara and lawmakers loyal to Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory as both sides continue to assert their influence in managing the state’s affairs.