The Rivers State Judicial Commission of Inquiry has summoned 109 individuals to provide testimony concerning incidents of arson, killings, and extensive property damage at several Local Government Council headquarters throughout the state.
This inquiry, initiated after an incident on October 7, 2024, is scheduled to begin on October 30 at the Rivers State High Court Complex in Port Harcourt, chaired by Hon. Justice Ibiwengi Minakiri.
Summoned to testify are current and former local government chairmen associated with Governor Siminalayi Fubara and former Governor Nyesom Wike, respectively, as well as some members of the House of Assembly, led by Speaker Martin Amaewhule.
The sessions will be organized by Local Government Area (LGA) as follows:
October 30–31: Witnesses from Ikwerre LGA, including notable figures such as current Council Chairman Barr. Israel Abosi, former Chairman Samuel Nwanosike, current Assembly member Prince Nyexhe, and his predecessor, Anslem Oguguo, among others.
November 1, 4 – 5: Eleme LGA witnesses, including the current chairman, Brian Gokpa, immediate past Chairman, Obarilomate Ollor and the Assembly member, Aforji Igwe, are expected will testify.
November 6: Representatives from Khana, Abua/Odual, and Ahoada East LGAs, including the current and past chairmen, will present.
November 7 will be the turn of Emohua LGA, while November 8 will be for witnesses from Obio/Akpor LGA.
November 11 – 12 is slated for spillover sessions for any remaining testimonies.
The Commission is tasked with examining the causes and responsibilities related to the violent events and property destruction that struck multiple local government council offices in Rivers State. Witnesses are urged to present any supporting documents or evidence.
The inquiry will be held at Block C, Court 14, Rivers State High Court Complex, Port Harcourt, starting daily at 9 a.m.