Rivers State Assembly Complex Controversy: What Really Happened?

Chief of Staff Speaks Out on Assembly Complex Demolition

Listen up, friends: Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s Chief of Staff, Edison Ehie, has weighed in on the recent controversy surrounding the destruction of the Rivers State House of Assembly Complex. Speaking with a level of clarity and conviction, Ehie pointed out that Speaker Martins Amaewhule holds the key to the Assembly Complex after business hours. If we're talking about accountability, the spotlight should shine directly on the Speaker.

Let me break it down for you. According to Naija News, Edison Ehie emphasized that only the Speaker has unrestricted access to the Assembly Complex after 6:00 pm. This means that if anything happens during those off-hours, the buck stops with him. This statement came during an exclusive interview on Channels TV, where Ehie was asked to shed light on the demolition that has sent ripples through the state.

Who Has Access to the Assembly Complex After Hours?

Now, here's where things get interesting. When asked if Amaewhule should be questioned about the demolition, Ehie didn’t mince words. He reiterated, “Yes, because he was the speaker at the time. He’s the one and the only one who has access. Whether it’s in the wee hours or even on weekends, once it’s past 6 p.m., there’s only one person who can access the Rivers State House of Assembly Complex in an emergency situation—and that’s the Speaker, as the presiding officer.”

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This is a bold statement, folks. It places the onus squarely on Amaewhule to explain what transpired during those critical hours when the Assembly Complex was demolished. It’s like saying, if you had the keys to the house and it went up in flames, you’d better have a good explanation.

Addressing the Supreme Court Ruling and Presidential Statement

When pressed about the Supreme Court's ruling and President Bola Tinubu's statement that Governor Fubara was aware of the demolition, Ehie took a measured approach. As a lawyer, he expressed respect for the judiciary but offered a deeper perspective on the situation. He explained, “As a lawyer, with the greatest respect to our noble profession, I won’t engage in a legal back-and-forth with the Supreme Court. However, I want to share some context with you. Let’s not forget that the former governor, who now serves as the FCT Minister, mentioned during the inauguration of the current Speaker’s residence that the Assembly Complex had become uninhabitable. It was no longer a suitable environment for conducting the business of the state.”

He continued, “What happened next? The members of the Assembly and their staff appealed, saying this place is no longer conducive for us to carry out the vital work of lawmaking. It’s not just about the building—it’s about the conditions that make it impossible for lawmakers to function effectively.”

Putting It All in Perspective

This whole situation is more than just a demolition; it’s a reflection of the challenges faced by state institutions. The Rivers State House of Assembly Complex wasn’t just a building—it was a symbol of governance. If the conditions there were truly as dire as described, it raises questions about why it took so long for action to be taken. And more importantly, who should have been responsible for ensuring the integrity of such a critical institution?

As the debate continues, one thing is clear: accountability matters. Whether it’s the Speaker, the Governor, or anyone else involved, the people of Rivers State deserve answers. After all, transparency and integrity are the cornerstones of good governance, and we need to ensure that those entrusted with public office are held to the highest standards.