By Abimbola Ologun
Tony Okocha, the Rivers State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has delivered a stern ultimatum to Governor Siminalayi Fubara, demanding that he either resign from office voluntarily or risk being impeached.
Okocha made this declaration during a press briefing at his private residence in Port Harcourt on Monday, voicing his concerns over the governor’s actions and their implications for both the state and the national government.
Okocha’s comments came in response to a letter issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Tammy Danagogo, on behalf of Governor Fubara, inviting 27 lawmakers – led by Assembly Speaker Rt. Hon. Ikuinyi Owaji Ibani Amaewhule – to a meeting at the Government House in Port Harcourt.
The invitation followed a recent Supreme Court ruling that restored the lawmakers’ positions, overturning a previous judgment that had invalidated their seats in the Assembly.
Describing the governor’s invitation as a “Greek gift,” Okocha dismissed any attempts to undermine the Supreme Court ruling. He stated, “The Supreme Court judgment is final, and nothing can be done to change it.”
Okocha’s frustration appeared to be compounded by what he perceived as Fubara’s disrespect toward the President, Bola Tinubu. He accused the governor of failing to show the necessary protocol and deference to the president, which Okocha called unacceptable.
“The APC position is clear,” Okocha declared. “Governor Fubara must resign honorably, or the APC will push for his impeachment. He has disrespected the president, and we cannot allow this behavior to continue.”
Okocha also emphasized that the charges against the governor were well-documented, and with the Supreme Court’s verdict, further investigations were unnecessary.
In a pointed closing remark, Okocha said that 48 hours was far too long to give Fubara as an ultimatum, urging him to resign immediately. “He should step down honorably,” Okocha concluded.
