Governor Fubara Loyalists Remanded prison by Federal High Court Attack on Assembly
A political crisis in Rivers State deepened as a federal high court in Abuja remanded five loyalists of Governor Siminalayi Fubara in connection with the explosion that engulfed the state house of assembly complex. The incident, which occurred on October 30, 2023, was linked to alleged attempts by lawmakers to impeach Governor Fubara.
The accused individuals, namely Kenneth Goodluck, Kpasa Chime, Eguma Ezebalike, Ochueja Thankgod, and Osiga Donald Prince, appeared before Justice Bolaji Olajuwon of the Federal High Court in Abuja.
They faced charges related to terrorism, stemming from their alleged involvement in the invasion, vandalization, and burning of the Rivers state house of assembly during the political turmoil in October.
The explosion raised tensions in Port Harcourt, as the crisis unfolded amid accusations that Governor Fubara loyalists were behind the destructive act.
Read also:Plateau Killing: We are Committed to Protecting Lives, Properties – DHQ
The five Fubara loyalists were also accused of causing the death of Police Superintendent Bako Agbashim and five police informants in the Ahoada community of the state.
The police informants identified as Ogbonna Eja, Saturday Edi, Charles Osu, Paul Victor, and Chibuogu Idaowuka reportedly lost their lives in the aftermath of the political turmoil. The accused Governor Fubara’s loyalists have been remanded in prison custody until February 2, when the court is set to decide on their bail applications.
This development follows the Supreme Court’s recent ruling affirming Governor Siminalayi Fubara as the legitimate winner of the March 18 governorship election in the state. The court dismissed the appeal filed by the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Tonye Cole, citing a lack of merit.
Read also:Nyesom Wike Collaborates With Traditional Leaders to Tackle Insecurity
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had declared Fubara of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) as the winner with 302,614 votes, surpassing Cole’s 95,274 votes.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the political landscape in Rivers State remains charged, reflecting the complex dynamics surrounding the governorship and the recent allegations against his loyalists.
