Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, faced a significant political setback on Wednesday when he was denied entry into the official quarters of the state House of Assembly in Port Harcourt.
The assembly, dominated by lawmakers loyal to former Governor Nyesom Wike, was in session but effectively locked its gates against him.
Accompanied by key government officials, including Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Tammy Danagogo, and Chief of Staff, Edison Ehie, Fubara arrived to find the entrance barred.
The unexpected refusal drew attention to growing tensions between the sitting governor and members of the assembly.
Speaking to journalists outside the gated complex, Fubara accused Speaker Martin Amaewhule of intentionally avoiding him.
He noted that his attempts to reach out to the Speaker prior to his arrival including several unanswered phone calls and a formal invitation letter had been unsuccessful.
“Before coming here, I made several attempts to communicate with the Speaker and sent a letter specifically for this invitation,” Fubara explained.
“It’s disheartening to see the gates sealed off without any indication that there would be a session today.”
The governor emphasized that his intentions were aligned with the needs of the populace. “Every action I take is fundamentally about our people.
“I don’t foresee any cause for alarm and hope to hear from them after today,” he stated, reaffirming his commitment to fulfilling his constitutional responsibilities.
Following the press briefing, Fubara and his entourage departed the premises, leaving behind an air of uncertainty regarding the relationship between the executive and legislative branches in Rivers State.