Lere Olayinka, the Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has accused House of Representatives member, Imo Ugochinyere, of being financially motivated in his involvement in the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State.
Olayinka alleged that Ugochinyere’s criticism of the recent developments in Rivers politics stemmed from the loss of financial benefits he previously enjoyed.
In a statement issued on Wednesday in Abuja, He said, “As a political operative, it is normal for Ugochinyere to express dissatisfaction over the dissolution of certain local government structures in Rivers State, which his party, the Action Peoples Party (APP), played a role in setting up,” Olayinka said. “From the now-disbanded local government councils, we know how much was involved, and this has now come to an end.”
Olayinka was reacting to comments made by Ugochinyere during a live television program, where the lawmaker raised concerns about governance in Rivers State. The FCT Minister’s aide dismissed Ugochinyere’s claims of an emerging opposition coalition, challenging him to name the lawmakers allegedly backing his political movement.
He also criticized Ugochinyere’s past remarks regarding the Rivers State House of Assembly and its Speaker, Martins Amaewhule. “He once claimed that Amaewhule would never see the state’s budget, but today, the political dynamics have changed,” Olayinka remarked.
On Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s approach to governance, Olayinka argued that due process was not being followed in legislative matters. He questioned the governor’s decision to visit the Assembly complex without formal communication, suggesting that such actions were more for public spectacle than governance.
“The proper procedure would have been for the governor to write to the Speaker and await a response for a budget presentation,” Olayinka stated.
The political crisis in Rivers State has deepened in recent months, with tensions between Governor Fubara and some political figures, including those aligned with his predecessor, Nyesom Wike.
As the situation unfolds, stakeholders continue to express divergent views on the best way forward for stability in the state.
