Rivers Ex-Speaker Claims N5bn Bribe Offer to Oust Fubara, Denies Role in Assembly Bombing

 

The political landscape in Rivers State has been rocked by fresh revelations as Hon. Edison Ehie, former Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly and current Chief of Staff to the suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, has disclosed that he was offered a staggering N5 billion bribe to support Fubara’s impeachment.

Speaking in an exclusive interview on Channels TV, Ehie revealed that despite the enormous sum placed before him, he stood firm against the alleged bribery attempt. He did not disclose the identity of those behind the offer but emphasized that his loyalty to the governor remained unwavering.

"The governor is a man of peace. He believes in resolving conflicts amicably," Ehie stated. "Back in October, I was approached with N5 billion to support his impeachment, but I refused. The bribe was meant to turn me against him, but I declined."

Denies Involvement in Assembly Complex Arson

Ehie also addressed accusations by the former Rivers State Head of Service, George Nwaeke, who claimed he was complicit in the bombing of the State House of Assembly.

Dismissing the allegations as politically motivated, Ehie alleged that Nwaeke was coerced into making the accusations. He also suggested that financial motives might have influenced Nwaeke’s statements.

"It is unfortunate that after serving the state for 35 years, Nwaeke could be pressured into making such claims," Ehie said. "I had no involvement in the burning of the Assembly complex. We had finished screening commissioners and left the premises before the incident occurred. On October 29th, which was a Sunday, we woke up to hear that the building had been bombed."

Ehie further disclosed that Nwaeke resigned on March 24, 2025, and by the following day, he was already seeking financial assistance from the governor.

"He was appealing to the governor for money, saying he didn’t have a good house and needed help. Unfortunately, by then, he had already submitted his resignation, stating he couldn’t work with Governor Fubara’s administration. This is a clear case of discontentment," Ehie remarked.

State of Emergency Debate: Ogbeh Condemns Military Appointments

Amid the political tensions in Rivers, former PDP national chairman and ex-minister of agriculture, Audu Ogbeh, has criticized the trend of replacing civilian governors with military administrators during states of emergency.

Speaking on a television program, Ogbeh questioned the rationale behind such decisions, pointing out that it sends a troubling message about civilian leadership in Nigeria.

"Each time a governor is suspended, a military officer is appointed in his place. What message are we sending?" Ogbeh asked. "Are we suggesting that civilians are incapable of governing themselves? This practice has been seen under both President Bola Tinubu and former President Olusegun Obasanjo, and it raises serious concerns."

He warned that such actions could undermine democracy and lead to the perception that military rule is preferable to civilian governance.

Police Tighten Security Ahead of Eid-el-Fitr

Amid the political turmoil, the Rivers State Police Command has intensified security across the state to ensure a peaceful Eid-el-Fitr celebration.

According to the command’s spokesperson, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, security measures were ramped up to prevent any possible disturbances.

"The Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, has directed all Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), and Tactical Units to strengthen patrols, surveillance, and intelligence gathering across the state," she said.

She assured that all major areas, including prayer grounds, markets, motor parks, and recreational centers, would be under heavy security surveillance. Additionally, key entry and exit points, as well as waterways, would be closely monitored to curb any criminal activities.

"In addition to visible security personnel, undercover operatives have been strategically deployed to ensure rapid response to any threats," the police spokesperson added.

Political Future Uncertain as Rivers State Awaits Resolution

As Rivers State continues to grapple with political crises, accusations, and security concerns, residents are left wondering what the future holds. With allegations of bribery, arson, and political power struggles dominating the headlines, the state remains on edge, awaiting resolutions that could shape its political landscape for years to come.