By Sabiu Abdullahi
The Rivers State House of Assembly finds itself mired in an ongoing crisis as law enforcement once again took control of the assembly complex on Tuesday.
Tensions escalated as members aligned with rival factions reportedly conducted separate sessions at different locations.
A notable security buildup included the presence of four police patrol vans at the assembly’s entrance, coupled with restricted movement along the Moscow Road Axis.
An Armoured Personnel Carrier patrolled the area, accompanied by armed operatives strategically positioned.
The specific reasons prompting this surge in security measures remain undisclosed.
Reports indicate that on Tuesday, House Speaker Martin Amaewhule led a gathering of 25 lawmakers who deliberated on the suspension of the strike by the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria.
Additionally, they called on State Commissioner for Police, Olatunji Disu, to launch an investigation into the recent explosion that ravaged the Assembly, causing significant damage.
In a parallel development, lawmakers aligned with Speaker Edison Ehie expressed staunch support for Governor Siminalayi Fubara during their session on Tuesday.
A resolution passed during this meeting commended the governor for his developmental initiatives and security measures aimed at preserving peace in the state.
Speaker Ehie, represented by Legislative Aide Ken Uchendu in an official statement, lauded the governor’s visionary leadership and pledged ongoing support for his consolidation and continuity agenda.
This faction vehemently condemned the recent attack on Ehie’s residence and the arson that engulfed the House of Assembly, urging the governor to expedite rehabilitation efforts.
Furthermore, lawmakers from this faction urged the Inspector General of Police and other pertinent security agencies to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the attacks, emphasising the importance of swiftly bringing the perpetrators to justice.