Rivers State Chief of Staff, Edison Ehie, has made a shocking allegation that he was offered a N5 billion bribe to impeach Governor Siminalayi Fubara. Ehie, who was then the majority leader of the Rivers State House of Assembly, claims the bribe was presented to him in October 2023.
The Bribery Allegation
According to Ehie, the bribe was meant to facilitate the impeachment of Governor Fubara. He asserts that he possesses concrete evidence of the bribery attempt, including recordings and documents, which he has printed and distributed for safekeeping ¹.
Denial of Involvement in Assembly Attack
Ehie has also denied allegations linking him to the October 30, 2023, attack on the Rivers State House of Assembly. The claims were made by George Nwaeke, a former Head of Service, who alleged that Ehie received a bag of money at the Government House to execute the attack. However, Ehie insists he had no involvement and has initiated a criminal defamation lawsuit against Nwaeke.
Accusations Against Nwaeke
Ehie alleges that Nwaeke sought financial assistance from him on the same day he resigned as head of service, suggesting ulterior motives behind the accusations. He also claims Nwaeke was compromised financially to implicate him and Governor Fubara.
Political Context
The allegations come amid a backdrop of political tension in Rivers State, following Governor Fubara’s fallout with his predecessor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. The state’s political crisis deepened with the suspension of Governor Fubara and his deputy by President Bola Tinubu on March 18, 2025 ¹.
Investigation and Aftermath
Ehie has promised to reveal the identity of the person behind the bribe offer, which could potentially escalate the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State. The development has sparked widespread concern, with many calling for a thorough investigation into the allegations.
By
