The Chief of Staff to Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Edison Ehie, has shed light on the underlying cause of the political turmoil in Rivers State, attributing it to a struggle for exclusive control over the state’s resources.
Ehie made these remarks on Saturday during a thanksgiving service held in Ahoada East Local Government Area to celebrate Governor Fubara’s recent victory at the Supreme Court. He warned that Governor Fubara is prepared to assert his political influence amidst the ongoing tensions.
“The problem we have in the state is that 11 persons said they will control the resources of Rivers State. These 11 persons now called 20 others to allocate resources to themselves,” Ehie stated, underscoring the issue of resource control as a central point of contention.
The thanksgiving event, which drew attendees from various sectors of society, including community leaders, women, youth groups, and political loyalists, turned into a platform for demonstrating support for Governor Fubara.
State lawmakers, led by Speaker Victor Oko-Jumbo, reaffirmed their allegiance to Governor Fubara, expressing solidarity with his leadership.
Addressing the gathering, Edison Ehie hinted at the ongoing political tensions between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike. He emphasized the governor’s determination to manoeuvre the tense political atmosphere despite his youthfulness.
“We are going to teach them a lesson of political arithmetics. What that small boy will do to you, you’ll know that khaki no be leather,” Ehie asserted, alluding to Governor Fubara’s ability to assert his authority.
Amidst the festivities, Governor Fubara’s administration demonstrated its commitment to grassroots empowerment by presenting financial support to small-scale business owners and coordinators of the Simplified Movement, underscoring its focus on socio-economic development.
As the political climate in Rivers State remains tense, Ehie’s remarks provide insight into the underlying dynamics driving the rift between political factions, highlighting the critical issue of resource allocation and control in the state’s governance.