Edison Ehie, the Chief of Staff to the suspended Governor of Rivers State, has claimed that he was offered a bribe of N5 billion to support the impeachment of his principal while serving as the Majority Leader of the Rivers State House of Assembly.
Ehie made this revelation during an interview on Channels Television on Sunday, stating that he possesses evidence to substantiate his claim.
Bribery Allegation and Political Conflict
According to Ehie, the alleged bribery attempt occurred in early October 2023 and was aimed at securing his support in removing Governor Siminalayi Fubara from office.
“I can open my phone to show you. At the beginning of October 2023, I was approached with a bribe of N5 billion,” Ehie declared. “It was for impeachment. I have the evidence, and I have printed and distributed it, just in case those behind it decide to attack me. I have a son and a brother who know everything,” he added, hinting at concerns for his safety.
Ehie also commended Governor Fubara for his commitment to conflict resolution, stating that the governor had prioritized peaceful political solutions despite the ongoing crisis.
Assembly Explosion and Escalation of Tensions
The political turbulence in Rivers State took a dramatic turn on the night of October 29, 2023, when an explosion rocked the State House of Assembly complex. The incident exposed the widening rift between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, who now serves as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
A day after the explosion, on October 30, Speaker Martin Amaewhule and 26 lawmakers loyal to Wike suspended Ehie and three other legislators who aligned with Governor Fubara. The suspended lawmakers were accused of orchestrating the explosion to disrupt Assembly proceedings.
Impeachment Attempt and Resistance
Following their suspension, Amaewhule and his faction initiated impeachment proceedings against Governor Fubara, citing allegations of abuse of power and gross misconduct. However, their efforts were met with strong resistance from the governor’s supporters, who effectively stalled the process.
The unfolding power struggle has deepened political divisions within the state, raising concerns about governance stability and the rule of law.
As tensions persist, observers are keenly watching for further developments in what has become one of the most heated political crises in Rivers State in recent times.
