Rivers State Governor Faces Ultimatum Over Embattled Lawmakers

 By Lod Onyeji 

The Initiative for Transparent Strategy and Good Leadership (ITSGL) has issued a seven-day ultimatum to Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminialayi Fubara, demanding the eviction of 27 embattled state lawmakers from government quarters. The lawmakers, who defected from the People's Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), are deemed to have lost their seats according to Section 109 of the 1999 constitution.¹

Chizy Enyi, President General of ITSGL, emphasized that the lawmakers' continued occupation of assembly quarters is unacceptable. He argued that their defection rendered them illegitimate members of the Rivers State House of Assembly. Enyi also questioned the National Assembly's involvement in a suit related to the lawmakers' legitimacy, stating that it was not relevant to the case.

The ITSGL's ultimatum reflects growing concerns over the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State. Enyi warned that if the governor fails to evict the lawmakers within the stipulated timeframe, the organization will take legal action.

The situation highlights the complexities of Nigeria's political landscape, where defections and party loyalty can have significant implications for governance and stability. As the ultimatum deadline approaches, the fate of the embattled lawmakers and the governor's response remain uncertain.