The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, Nyesom Wike, stated that the Rivers state government has withheld the salaries and allowances of the House of Assembly, led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, for over a year.
Speaking in Port Harcourt over the weekend, Wike noted that despite the challenges, the lawmakers have remained steadfast in their commitment to uphold the independence of the legislature.
He indicated that their salaries and allowances were withheld in an attempt to frustrate them and pressure them into begging the state governor, Siminialayi Fubara
Wike said: “You have shown the capacity and independence of the legislature. You have shown that money cannot move you. Other states should emulate you.
“They seized their salaries for one year. They seized their allowances. They said they would come and beg. Are you begging today? Will you beg tomorrow? You have shown them we are who we are.
“Tomorrow, people will look for you. Who are these guys that stood firm when it mattered most? You may have lost many things. This is the sacrifice you must make. The problem we have in the country today is leaders, who don’t want to be firm and say this is what we believe in.
“We won’t leave you behind, Rivers leaders are with you every step of the way, ensuring that the people’s interests are protected.”
