By Akinsuroju Olubunmi
Rivers Crisis: Lawmaker’s actions slammed by Reps caucus
The Rivers State House of Representatives caucus has urged the leadership of the Green Chamber to address the conduct of Ikenga Ugochinyere, the representative for Ideato North/Ideato South Federal Constituency in Imo State, regarding his involvement in the ongoing political turmoil in Rivers State.
The caucus criticized Ugochinyere for his lack of understanding about the crisis involving 27 Rivers House of Assembly members and 23 former Local Government Chairmen in conflict with Governor Siminalayi Fubara. On June 18, 2024, Ugochinyere held a press conference in Abuja, urging the governor to charge the former council bosses with treason for remaining in office beyond their tenure.
Dumnamene Dekor, leader of the Rivers caucus and representative of Gokanna/Khana Federal Constituency, accused Ugochinyere of being a “veritable tool” in a matter beyond his knowledge. Dekor condemned Ugochinyere’s actions as misleading and harmful to the ongoing legal processes.
Dekor’s statement read, “The Rivers caucus in the House of Representatives is alarmed by Ikenga Ugochinyere’s misleading press briefing on June 18th regarding the disagreement between the Rivers State governor and the House of Assembly, and recently, Local Government Chairmen. We urge the House leadership to discipline this member who is bringing disrepute to the House.”
He added, “Since the dispute began, Ugochinyere has disregarded caution and decorum expected of his office. Instead, he acts as an agent provocateur, driven by personal interests rather than knowledge of the issue.”
Dekor highlighted Ugochinyere’s interventions as filled with blackmail, misinformation, and malicious propaganda, which undermine due process and ongoing judicial efforts. He criticized Ugochinyere for his lack of understanding and irresponsible behavior.
The caucus also noted Ugochinyere’s irrelevance to Rivers politics, pointing out that he is from Imo State and should focus on the political and social issues there. “Ugochinyere’s actions are a reckless violation of the constitution and impinge on the privileges of Rivers caucus members and the integrity of the House,” Dekor stated.
Rivers crisis, House leadership
Rivers Crisis: Lawmaker’s actions slammed by Reps caucus