The Speaker of the factional Rivers House of Assembly aligned with Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Rt. Hon. Barr. Edison Ogerenye Ehie, DSSRS, narrowly escaped an assassination attempt orchestrated by armed thugs and rogue Police Officers.
The incident, transpiring on the night of Sunday, November 19, 2023, unfolded with a brazen attack on Ehie’s private residence, intending to eliminate him and his family.
CCTV Chronicles the Encounter
The attack, transpiring around 11 pm, was meticulously documented by CCTV cameras installed in the residence.
The Speaker’s legislative aide, Ken Uchendu, assures the public that the footage will be shared with local and international media outlets, including CNN and Al Jazeera, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
Ehie’s security details valiantly engaged in a gun battle with the assailants, successfully thwarting the alleged assassination attempt.
The Speaker, emphasizing the gravity of the situation, vows to address the media in a press conference on Monday, November 20, 2023, shedding light on the incident.
Despite the gravity of the situation, Rivers Commissioner of Police, CP Tunji Rilwan Disu, remains silent on the alleged assassination attempt.
The absence of an official response raises questions about the involvement of two senior Police Officers in the attack.
Recalling a previous incident on October 29, unknown persons bombed the Chambers of the Rivers House of Assembly.
Investigations later revealed that this act aimed to hinder the planned impeachment of Governor Fubara by lawmakers loyal to his predecessor, Nyesom Wike.
Amid the chaos, Martin Amaewhule-led lawmakers suspended Edison Ehie, accusing him of involvement in the chamber bombing.
Factional Strife Escalates
A rival faction of the House, however, appointed Edison Ehie as Speaker, further deepening the political schism.
Fubara, responding to the impeachment notice, sought legal intervention to restrain Wike’s loyalists from impeaching him.
In a bold move, Ken Uchendu announces that Rivers residents, regardless of age or gender, are prepared to protest against the Nigerian Police and those fuelling violence in the state.
The statement concludes by holding specific officers, the Rivers State Police Command, and their sponsors accountable should there be a breakdown of law and order.
Adding to the intrigue, the Speaker declares intentions to address a World Press Conference on Monday, November 20, 2023, potentially shedding more light on the intricate web of political turmoil in Rivers State.
