…Assembly-Governor Tensions Escalate as Opuende Declares Lawmakers Will “Dey Their Dey”
The ongoing political crisis in Rivers State has taken another dramatic turn as Lolo Isaiah Opuende, a member of the State House of Assembly representing Akuku-Toru Constituency 2, publicly rejected an invitation from Governor Siminialayi Fubara for a crucial meeting at Government House, Port Harcourt.
In a video widely circulated online, Opuende firmly dismissed the governor’s attempt to convene the lawmakers, insisting that it was time for both parties to function independently. He emphasized this stance using the phrase “dey his dey,” implying that the governor should focus on his own affairs while lawmakers handle legislative matters separately.
Reflecting on the deepening discord between the executive and legislative arms of government in Rivers State, Opuende recalled that their principal had long predicted a moment when both factions would inevitably go their separate ways.
According to him, the current political situation was not unexpected but rather a fulfillment of that forecast, signaling a further breakdown in relations between Governor Fubara’s administration and the Assembly.
One of Opuende’s primary grievances was the manner in which the governor extended his invitation to the lawmakers. He strongly criticized the informal approach, questioning the legitimacy of summoning elected officials through social media rather than through official government channels.
“How can you write a letter meant for the House of Assembly and then post it on social media, expecting us to attend? The governor should follow the proper channels and address us formally,” he stated emphatically.
His remarks reflect the growing dissatisfaction among legislators, many of whom feel sidelined and disrespected by the governor’s communication strategy.
According to a report by reports, Opuende’s outright rejection of the meeting underscores the widening gulf between Governor Fubara and the Assembly. With tensions escalating, it remains unclear how or if the dispute will be resolved.
However, Opuende’s statement suggests that unless the governor adopts a more formal and respectful approach in engaging the lawmakers, reconciliation may be difficult if not impossible. As Rivers State continues to witness political unrest, the question remains: Is this the beginning of a total breakdown in governance, or will both sides find a path to resolution?
