Oluwatosin Enesi
This is following a move by the house to commence an impeachment process on the Leader of the House, Hon. Edison Ehie, and the state Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara today.
The fire bombers had carried out the act at about 9:45pm on Sunday, causing uneasy calm around the assembly complex where the State Police Command also stands.
A source said the legislature has concluded plans to impeach the duo on Monday at its resumed sitting following some undisclosed issues.
It was gathered that following the development some youths had invaded the assembly complex and set it ablaze.
A senior police officer in the state, who did not want to be mentioned confirmed the development, adding that it took efforts of police and the state Fire Service teams to put out the fire.
The source said: “Yes, the Rivers State House of Assembly main chamber was under attack and set on fire. It was policemen and the fire service team that helped to put out the fire.”
However, at press time, Security personnel have taken over the premises of the assembly complex.
Over 17 security trucks and four Armoured Personnel Carriers, APC, have been stationed at the facility with over 50 Federal Security personnel mobilized at the complex.
It was also alleged at that the Rivers Government House Camp Commander has been sacked.
In a recent development, a fresh crisis has erupted in the Rivers State House of Assembly.
The House, on Monday, removed its leader, Edison Ehie, in a move widely seen as a prelude to the governor’s impeachment. Twenty-four Assembly members, including the Speaker, Martin Amaewhule, supported Ehie’s removal.
The governor also stormed the Assembly Complex while House members fled for safety as tear gas was fired outside the building.
Fubara, while addressing his supporters at the Assembly Complex, said he has not committed any offence to warrant impeachment by the Rivers State House of Assembly.
“Let them come out and tell Rivers people the offence I have committed to warrant any impeachment,” Fubara said.
The governor also assured the state’s people of getting the dividends of democracy and noted that he would speak on the matter at the appropriate time.
Our Reporter
