Okoi Obono-Obla, a former presidential aide and stalwart of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has raised concerns about the political situation in Rivers State. He specifically addressed the acting chairman of the APC in the state, Tony Okocha, stating that Okocha does not have the authority to instruct the 27 APC lawmakers in the state House of Assembly to impeach Governor Sim Fubara.
While emphasizing the need for caution, Obono-Obla advised Governor Fubara to be vigilant, as he may not have enough support in the House of Assembly to protect himself from potential legislative actions.
Expressing his views in a statement released in Calabar, Obono-Obla highlighted the importance of reconciliation over political posturing, which he believes could lead to the downfall of Governor Fubara.
Regarding the election of a new Speaker of the State Assembly by a faction of lawmakers loyal to the governor, Obono-Obla criticized the move, citing constitutional concerns. He questioned the legitimacy of a Speaker being elected by only five members in a 31-member House of Assembly.
Obono-Obla also condemned the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, attributing it to personal egos, lawlessness, and the culture of impunity that has taken root in the state’s leadership.
Expressing disappointment in the current state of affairs, Obono-Obla called for a shift in focus towards governance, rather than internal power struggles and conflict.