“Dey Your Dey”: Pro-Wike Lawmakers Reject Fubara’s Invitation

Fubara in Limbo as Rivers Assembly Adjourns Indefinitely

“Dey Your Dey”: Pro-Wike Lawmakers Reject Fubara’s Invitation

By Ricky Awodi

The political impasse in Rivers State deepened on Sunday as the Martin Amaewhule-led faction of the state House of Assembly rejected an invitation from Governor Siminalayi Fubara, citing concerns over the method of communication. The 27 lawmakers, aligned with former Governor Nyesom Wike, insisted that official engagement must follow due process, not be publicized on social media.

Lawmakers Demand Proper Communication

Governor Fubara, through the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Tammy Danagogo, invited the legislators to a meeting scheduled for Monday at the Government House, with an agenda covering key issues such as:

Provision of a sitting space for the Assembly.

Payment of outstanding allowances.

Presentation of the 2025 budget.

However, the lawmakers remained defiant. One of them, Isaiah Opuende, representing Akuku-Toru Constituency 2, ridiculed the invitation, questioning why Fubara was now reaching out after previously dismissing the Assembly.

“Dey Your Dey”: Pro-Wike Lawmakers Reject Fubara’s Invitation

“It is time for us to determine our dey,” Opuende stated, referencing the governor’s earlier remarks. “How can you post an invitation on social media and expect us to honor it? We are not kids. The governor should communicate properly.”

Mockery and Defiance from Pro-Wike Camp

In a viral video, former local government chairmen who served under Wike were seen singing mockingly about the invitation. Dr. Samuel Nwanosike, former chairman of Ikwerre Local Government, led the chant, urging Fubara not to “disturb” the Assembly Speaker, Amaewhule.

This development follows the Supreme Court’s ruling affirming the legitimacy of the pro-Wike lawmakers. Since reconvening, they have pressured Fubara to submit the 2025 budget and nominate commissioners, asserting that the current cabinet lacks legal standing.

APC, Political Analysts Weigh In

The All Progressives Congress (APC) factions in Rivers State have expressed mixed reactions. The Tony Okocha-led faction, loyal to Wike, welcomed Fubara’s move as a step toward resolving the crisis. “The governor has written to the lawmakers; they should reciprocate for the sake of peace,” said state APC Publicity Secretary, Chibuike Ikenga.

"Dey Your Dey": Pro-Wike Lawmakers Reject Fubara’s Invitation
“Dey Your Dey”: Pro-Wike Lawmakers Reject Fubara’s Invitation

However, the Emeka Beke-led faction, aligned with former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi, described the development as a “win-win” that affirms the supremacy of the law. “The Supreme Court ruling has settled the matter; Fubara has no choice but to comply,” said Chizi Entire, Beke’s Chief of Staff.

Tensions Over Impeachment Rumors

Despite calls for peace, the political crisis continues to escalate, with former local government chairmen from Ijaw-dominated areas condemning threats of violence over Fubara’s potential impeachment. Some pro-Fubara groups had warned of disruptions to oil production if the governor was removed.

The ex-LG chairmen dismissed these threats, insisting that the Supreme Court ruling must be enforced. “No one should use the Ijaw identity to justify lawlessness,” they stated, accusing Fubara’s supporters of benefiting from the crisis.

What’s Next for Rivers State?

As the 72-hour deadline for the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission chairman to appear before the Assembly expires today, political observers are watching closely. Will Fubara formally engage the lawmakers, or will the standoff persist?

“Dey Your Dey” slang has always been used by Fubara in the past.

With impeachment speculation growing, Rivers State remains on edge, and the battle for control over the state’s governance is far from over.

 

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