Edison Ehie, Chief of Staff to the suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has alleged that he was offered a staggering N5 billion to facilitate the impeachment of his principal.
Speaking on Sunday Politics on Channels Television, Ehie claimed to have evidence of the bribe attempt stored on his phone, which he has also printed and distributed for safekeeping.
“I can open my phone to show you when, in October 2023, they approached me with a bribe of N5 billion. It was for impeachment. I have it documented in case, in their evil imagination, they decide to attack me,” he stated.
At the time of the alleged offer, Ehie was the Majority Leader of the Rivers State House of Assembly.
Denies Involvement in Assembly Bombing
Ehie also dismissed allegations that he orchestrated the October 30, 2023, bombing of the Rivers State House of Assembly under Fubara’s orders. The claim was made by former Rivers State Head of Service, George Nwaeke, who alleged that he witnessed Ehie receiving a bag of money at the Government House for the operation. However, Nwaeke admitted he did not know the exact amount.
Rejecting the accusation as politically motivated, Ehie insisted: “I had no hand in the burning down of the Rivers State House of Assembly. Like everyone else, I woke up on October 30, 2023, to hear of the incident.”
Legal Battle Looms
In response, Ehie announced that he has instructed his legal team to file a criminal libel lawsuit against Nwaeke.
“I will not engage in unnecessary back-and-forth with Mr. George Nwaeke because my lawyers are already handling the case. He must be prepared to substantiate his claims,” he said.
Ehie further alleged that Nwaeke had approached him for financial assistance on the same day he resigned as Head of Service.
Political Turmoil in Rivers State
Rivers State has been engulfed in political tension following Fubara’s fallout with his predecessor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
On March 18, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in the state, suspending both the governor and his deputy. Days later, on March 26, the newly appointed sole administrator, Ibok-Ete Ibas, dismissed all political officeholders in the state.
The crisis continues to unfold, with allegations, counterclaims, and legal battles shaping the state’s uncertain political future.
