The Rivers State House of Assembly has announced an early resumption of plenary activities, bringing forward its return date from January 26 to today, amid escalating political tension in the state.
The sudden reconvening of lawmakers is coming against the backdrop of an intensifying power struggle between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, the current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Political observers note that a majority of members of the Rivers State Assembly are believed to be loyal to Wike, with several lawmakers openly opposing Governor Fubara’s political direction as the 2027 general elections draw closer.
The prolonged standoff has heightened uncertainty across the oil-rich state, raising concerns over governance stability and legislative cooperation.
The early resumption also follows comments made by Wike on Wednesday at a stakeholders’ meeting in Asari-Toru Local Government Area, where he declared that political parties in Rivers State have effectively collapsed into a single political coalition backing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election.
“In Rivers State, we no longer operate party politics in the conventional sense. What we have is the Renewed Hope Family; a broad, inclusive coalition,” Wike stated.
He explained that the coalition is designed to unite former political rivals under a common agenda focused on supporting President Tinubu and advancing the state’s political interests.
“If you are not part of this family, then forget it. After delivering President Tinubu, this family will produce leadership across the board; from the governorship to the House of Assembly,” Wike added.
The implications of the Assembly’s early resumption are expected to become clearer as plenary proceedings begin.
