The Rivers State House of Assembly (RSHA) was on Sunday night set ablaze by yet to be known political thugs over the alleged move to impeach the state governor, Siminalayi Fubara and Leader of the House, Edison Ehie.
Recall that civil society group, Coalition of Democratic Vanguard (CDV), recently issued a strong warning to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike and his allies who are allegedly seeking to impeach Fubara and Ehie.
However, it was gathered that some thugs in a white Hilux van invaded the assembly complex at about 9.00pm yesterday, disarmed the security personnel on duty and allegedly carried out the act.
Findings show that the incident occurred at the assembly complex, opposite the Headquarters of the State Command Police, on Moscow Road, Port Harcourt.
There were speculations that the legislature had concluded plans to impeach Gov. Fubara and Ehie today at it resumed sitting following some undisclosed issues.
A security source, who pleaded anonymity and confirmed the incident, said it took efforts of police and the State Fire Service teams to put out the fire.
The source said: “Yes, the Rivers State House of Assembly main chamber was under attack and set on fire. It was police men and the fire service team that helped to put out the fire.”
Meanwhile, CDV had earlier issued a statement, “warning Nyesom Wike and his allies against moves to impeach Governor Fubara and Ehie.
The coalition in the statement signed by Mr Thompson Orumbo (Chairman) and Peter Nwabunna (Secretary), condemned any attempt to undermine the democratic process and urged all parties involved to respect the will of the people and prioritise the betterment of Rivers State.
They stated: “At the core of any functioning democracy lies the principle of free and fair elections, which provide citizens with the opportunity to choose their leaders, and Rivers people have chosen Sir Siminalayi Fubara. Impeachment attempts should be rooted in concrete evidence of wrongdoing and carried out only through legitimate channels, ensuring transparency and accountability.”
“The Coalition emphasises that any attempts to impeach Governor Fubara and Ehie must adhere to the democratic principles, if not, it would be resisted by Rivers people.
“Rivers State has made significant strides in the pursuit of development and stability under the leadership of Governor Fubara. The governor has championed policies and initiatives that have positively impacted the lives of the citizens. Political squabbles and power struggles should not hinder the progress, and the people’s mandate must be respected.”
The Coalition further urged “Nyesom Wike and his co-travellers to prioritise the interests of the people and set aside personal and political interest.”
“The said that the unity and stability of Rivers State should be the primary goal, with cooperative efforts dedicated to achieving sustained development, improved infrastructure, and the welfare of its citizens.
“Should Nyesom Wike and his co-travellers have genuine concerns regarding the performance or integrity of Governor Fubara and Edison Ehie, they should first present concrete evidence through appropriate channels such as investigations or inquiries. This would ensure that any actions taken are based on facts instead of subjective perceptions or personal motives,” the coalition added.
Fubara, a former Accountant General of the state, was chosen by Wike to become the governor of the state.