By Milcah Tanimu

Rivers State is gripped by heightened tension as stakeholders anxiously await the verdict of the Court of Appeal. The case involves former Speaker Martin Amaewhule and 24 others challenging the legitimacy of Speaker Victor Oko-Jumbo and his associates, who are backed by a high court ruling.

During the last hearing, both parties presented their final arguments before the court, which subsequently adjourned for judgment.

Amaewhule’s faction seeks to block the implementation of the high court’s decision, halt further proceedings, and invalidate any actions taken by Jumbo while in office. They argue that the trial court exceeded its jurisdiction.

At the heart of the conflict lies the administration of Rivers State’s 23 local government areas. Former chairpersons, whose terms have ended, insist on remaining in office, citing legislation amended by Amaewhule’s faction of the State House of Assembly.

The situation escalated recently when Governor Fubara directed Local Government Heads of Administration to assume control of councils from June 18, 2024. This directive was met with resistance from former chairpersons who claim an extension of their tenure by six months.

The resulting standoff turned violent, leading to casualties among security personnel and protesters. In response, the Inspector General of Police ordered heightened security measures and deployed operatives to maintain peace and apprehend the perpetrators.

Governor Fubara swiftly nominated caretaker chairpersons for all 23 local government areas, who were promptly sworn in by the State House of Assembly. However, police presence at council secretariats prevented them from assuming office, prompting criticism and planned protests by various groups.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State has called for a state of emergency to address the escalating crisis, a move contested by stakeholders who fear further instability and rights violations.

Meanwhile, the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in Rivers State has alerted authorities to alleged plans by former officials and their allies to incite unrest through protests, potentially destabilizing governance.

With tensions running high, concerns are mounting over the potential for further violence and the overall impact on the state’s stability and governance.