“— a chief executive who takes orders rather than gives them. The Assembly’s move only reinforces this perception, as many argue that the legislative arm is overreaching its constitutional role, turning governance into a tug-of-war instead of a partnership”
The political drama in Rivers State took another twist as the State House of Assembly on Thursday issued a fresh directive to Governor Siminalayi Fubara, ordering him to immediately submit a list of commissioner nominees and prepare the 2026 appropriation bill without further delay.
The lawmakers, visibly emboldened, accused the governor of running the state like a “one-man show” while critical government functions remain paralyzed due to the absence of a full cabinet.
Fubara, who has been struggling to assert his independence in the face of heavy political pressure from both his estranged benefactor, Nyesom Wike, and the state legislature, now finds himself boxed into a corner once again.
Critics have derisively tagged him a “boy-boy governor” — a chief executive who takes orders rather than gives them. The Assembly’s move only reinforces this perception, as many argue that the legislative arm is overreaching its constitutional role, turning governance into a tug-of-war instead of a partnership for the good of Rivers people.
Yet, the tragedy is not just about Fubara’s weakness, nor the Assembly’s high-handedness, but the ordinary citizens who bear the brunt of stalled governance. Hospitals are underfunded, schools neglected, infrastructure projects abandoned, while politicians flex muscle in a power show that mocks democracy.
Until Fubara rises above being perceived as anyone’s “errand boy” and the Assembly remembers its true role of lawmaking, Rivers people may continue to live under the shadow of endless political theatre.
Editor’s Note: The ongoing tussle in Rivers State reflects the wider Nigerian problem where personal ego and political control often trump real governance. A governor should not be reduced to a pawn, nor should a legislature become a tool of intimidation. The people deserve leaders, not puppets.
By Noel Chiagorom — The Nation’s Eyes Newspaper
