Wike: Midnight Injunctions Won’t Oust Rivers Lawmakers

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, issued a stern warning to his adversaries, affirming their attempts at illegal action in the ongoing state crisis will not prevail. Wike, the former Rivers State governor, currently embroiled in a standoff with his estranged protégé and successor, Siminalayi Fubara, reinforced his stance amidst the recent legal maneuvers.

Following a court injunction obtained by three pro-Fubara members of the State House of Assembly, which aimed to prevent 25 pro-Wike legislators from convening, Wike denounced the efficacy of such late-night legal maneuvers. Addressing supporters at a civic reception for Chief George Thompson Sekibo, Wike asserted, “No injunctions obtained at 2 am or 4 am would stop the law and due process from taking its course.”

In a show of political arrogance, Wike admitted to an erroneous judgment concerning Fubara, expressing remorse and pledging to rectify the misstep in due time. Vowing to persist in making his detractors uneasy, he reassured his supporters in the assembly, urging them not to yield to intimidation.

Meanwhile, Wike’s Chief of Staff, Edison Ehie, echoed the governor’s sentiments, asserting their readiness to impart a political lesson on their opponents. Addressing a gathering in Ahoada East Local Government Area, Ehie declared, “What that small boy (Fubara) will do to you, you’ll know that khaki nor be leather.”

The crisis in Rivers State has garnered diverse legal opinions, with some, like Professor Itse Sagay (SAN), acknowledging the governor’s prerogative to relocate the assembly. Conversely, Wahab Shittu (SAN) condemned Fubara’s actions, deeming them a threat to democracy and the principle of separation of powers.

In an Executive Order dated October 30, 2023, Fubara directed all proceedings and business of the Rivers State House of Assembly to take place temporarily at the Government House Auditorium in Port Harcourt, citing the need for chamber repairs, renovation, and reconstruction.