By Our Reporter
The recent end of emergency rule and subsequent return of democratic governance in Rivers State has sparked renewed debate about the state of political peace in the state.
The Managing Director of Rigour Edge Limited, Zeismer Evans Osi in an interview argued that without a genuine reconciliation between the Governor, the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Martin Amaewhule, and his members, any talk of peace remains superficial.
He noted that the dynamics of political relationships in Rivers State are starkly different from those at the federal level or other state. At the national level you see the Senate President consistently welcomes the President at the airport, symbolizing a level of cooperation and respect.
He disclosed that Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly and his members could not extend a similar courtesy to the Governor at the airport, noting that it raises questions about the depth of political peace in the state
Evans Osi pointed out that True peace and stability can only be achieved when there is mutual respect and cooperation between the executive and legislative arms of government.
“The political tension between the Governor and the Assembly has been well-documented, with both sides often at odds over key issues affecting the state. This discord has led to concerns about the potential impact on governance and development in Rivers State.”
“The situation has been further complicated by the Assembly’s actions on the same day the suspension was lifted, when they urged the Governor to submit names of commissioners, without even waiting a day for his arrival. This move will be seen by many as a sign of the strained relationship between the two arms of government.”
“As the Governor settles back into his duties, many are calling for a renewed effort to bridge the gap between the executive and legislative branches. Without such reconciliation, the prospects for genuine political peace in Rivers State remain uncertain.” He said.
Also, Evans-Osi queried the President General of the Grassroots Development Initiative, GDI, Bright Amaewhule, who criticised Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s supporters that gathered at the airport last week to Welcome the state Governor as cultists and as an act of enmity toward members of the State House of Assembly.
He described Bright Amaewhule as a troublemaker trying to cause trouble or looking for popularity instead of asking why the state assembly members could not go to the airport to welcome their governor and their leader.
“I want to believe bright statement is personal and is not coming from GDI.” He summed up.
