A coalition of opposition lawmakers has raised the alarm over an alleged plot by pro-Wike lawmakers to destabilise the upcoming local government elections in Rivers State through illegal legislative maneuvers and court orders.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, the leader of the group, Rep. Ikenga Ugochinyere (PDP – Imo State), alleged that some lawmakers loyal to the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, were making desperate moves to frustrate the conduct of the elections and prevent the implementation of the 2025 Rivers State budget, despite the Supreme Court’s directive.

According to Ugochinyere, the pro-Wike lawmakers are working to amend the Local Government Administration Law to pave the way for former local government chairmen—whose tenure has expired—to return to office.

“Their plan is to frustrate the election so that these former LGA chairmen, whose tenure is over, can come back. But we assure the people of Rivers State that the election will hold as scheduled by the electoral body. No illegal amendment will stop the process.”

He also accused them of seeking a court injunction to halt the elections, similar to previous legal maneuvers used to sabotage democratic processes in the state.

Ugochinyere further alleged that the lawmakers were deliberately avoiding the 2025 budget presentation in a bid to cripple governance in Rivers State.

“The Governor reached out to the House of Assembly members to come for a meeting, something Wike himself would never do. But they boycotted the meeting and refused to come. The Governor even called the Speaker multiple times, but he refused to answer. This shows their real agenda—anarchy and suffering for Rivers people.”

Despite these challenges, he commended Governor Siminalayi Fubara for his humility and compliance with the Supreme Court judgment, stating that the Governor had acted in good faith by reaching out to the Assembly members and ensuring governance continued despite the provocation and betrayal of the peace accord.

The lawmakers accused Wike of seeking control over Rivers State at all costs, rather than prioritizing peace and development.

“Wike’s interest is not about peace or progress; it is about control. Since he is no longer in charge of the state, he wants nothing done. Every crisis, from the local government elections to the Assembly impasse, is part of his strategy to hold the state hostage.”

They warned that Rivers people would resist any attempt to undermine democracy in the state, urging Nigerians to remain vigilant in defending democratic principles.

“We are almost at the end of this crisis, and that’s why you see more frustrations and ranting from these political actors. But the people are rising. Our party leaders, governors, and National Working Committee members are standing firm to put an end to this madness. We will not allow Rivers State to be destabilized.”

The lawmakers reaffirmed their support for Governor Fubara and called on the opposition to respect the rule of law and democratic institutions rather than resorting to unconstitutional tactics. (Vanguard)