Former Rivers State Governor and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has announced plans to sue the panel of inquiry established by Governor Siminalayi Fubara to investigate the recent outbreak of violence during local government elections in Rivers State.
Speaking on Channels TV’s Politics Today on Tuesday night, Wike confirmed that he had instructed his legal team to challenge the panel’s legitimacy. He questioned the motives behind the commission, suggesting that the state’s law enforcement agencies should have handled the matter instead of launching an inquiry.
Read Also: Blackout: 14 Suspects Arrested For Vandalizing 132KV Transmission Tower Line In Rivers And Bayelsa
“The governor said this is the handiwork of his political opponents. Knowing them, why are they setting up the panel of inquiry? All you need to do is get the police to arrest them,” Wike remarked.
The judicial panel was constituted by Governor Fubara following violent incidents that erupted during local elections on October 7, 2024, resulting in the destruction of three local government secretariats. The violence, allegedly carried out by supporters loyal to Wike, has deepened tensions between him and the current governor.
In a swift response, Governor Fubara pledged that those responsible for the violence would face the full weight of the law. Speaking at the Government House in Port Harcourt, while swearing in four new commissioners, he vowed to hold the perpetrators accountable.
“We won’t stand by and watch political thugs wreak havoc in Rivers State,” Fubara said. “Those behind these attacks will account for their atrocities.”
The violence, according to the governor, was fuelled by individuals discontented with the current political dynamics in the state. “Those behind this are unhappy and have gone to extreme lengths to sow discord among our people. But we won’t allow this to go unpunished.”
Meanwhile, a statement released by the Office of the Secretary to the Rivers State Government, Dr. Tammy Danagogo, confirmed the establishment of the judicial commission under Section 2(1) of the Commissions of Inquiry Law. The panel has been tasked with investigating the arson, killings, and destruction of property that occurred during the elections.
The political rift between Wike and Fubara, once allies, has intensified in recent months, with the latest episode potentially setting the stage for a protracted legal battle. As Rivers State remains on edge, the outcome of the inquiry and the subsequent legal confrontation could have far-reaching implications for the state’s political landscape.
