The ongoing political tensions in Rivers State deepened further as the Sole Administrator of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, Chief Tony Okocha, for the second time, failed to honor an invitation extended by the House of Representatives Committee on Electoral Matters. The session was intended as an interactive forum to discuss pressing issues related to electoral administration and party operations in the state.

Chief Okocha’s no-show has sparked sharp criticism from members of the committee, who viewed his repeated absence as an act of disregard for the authority of the National Assembly. Lawmakers say his continued refusal to appear before the House threatens not only democratic accountability but also undermines the credibility of internal party administration and public engagement in Rivers State.

House Committee Reacts with Displeasure

The House of Representatives Committee on Electoral Matters, chaired by Hon. Aisha Dukku, expressed disappointment over the administrator’s failure to attend the session. The committee had initially invited Okocha to provide insight into a series of controversial developments within the APC in Rivers, especially in the wake of growing concerns about intra-party conflict, administrative irregularities, and allegations of political intimidation.

“The decision to invite Chief Okocha was not confrontational but an opportunity for dialogue and clarification,” Hon. Dukku stated during the session. “It is unfortunate that despite our efforts to foster a peaceful and constructive conversation on issues affecting the APC in Rivers State, the Sole Administrator has again chosen to distance himself from the process.”

The chairman of the committee further noted that repeated invitations were extended in good faith, and as a representative of a national political party, Chief Okocha had a responsibility to appear before the committee and present his position regarding concerns raised by stakeholders in the state.

Background: Controversy Within Rivers APC

The political atmosphere in Rivers State has been riddled with controversy in recent months, largely stemming from leadership disputes and internal rifts within the APC. The appointment of Tony Okocha as the sole administrator of the party in the state was itself a contentious development. Critics argue that the appointment sidelined other party structures and left many party members disenfranchised.

Some factions within the APC have accused Okocha of unilateral decision-making and suppressing dissent within the party. These accusations led to petitions being filed with the House of Representatives, prompting the committee to intervene and seek clarification on the state of party affairs in Rivers.

One of the core issues raised by stakeholders involves the conduct of local congresses and the alleged marginalization of certain factions within the party. There have also been accusations of collaboration with state government actors to weaken the opposition, raising further alarm over the independence and integrity of party leadership in the state.

Lawmakers Debate Possible Sanctions

In light of the administrator’s repeated refusal to appear, members of the committee deliberated on possible next steps. Some lawmakers proposed issuing a warrant of appearance or summoning him formally in accordance with legislative powers granted under the Nigerian Constitution.

Hon. Chinedu Obika, a member of the committee from Anambra State, said, “No individual, no matter their political alignment, is above the authority of the House of Representatives. If Mr. Okocha continues to avoid this engagement, we will be forced to invoke the necessary legal instruments to compel his appearance.”

Other lawmakers warned that continued defiance by political officeholders could set a dangerous precedent and erode the institution’s ability to enforce checks and balances.

“We must send a clear message that accountability is not optional,” Hon. Obika added. “Whether you are in the ruling party or the opposition, our duty as legislators is to provide oversight and uphold the integrity of democratic institutions.”

Rivers Stakeholders Demand Transparency

Political stakeholders and civil society organizations in Rivers State have also voiced concern over Okocha’s absence from the House sessions. Many believe that his unwillingness to engage with lawmakers reflects a deeper problem of political opacity in the state.

A statement released by the Coalition for Democratic Accountability in Rivers (CODAR) called on the APC national leadership to intervene and ensure that its representatives are not seen as undermining democratic principles.

“The people of Rivers State deserve answers, and party leaders must be held accountable to the public,” the group said. “The refusal of the state party administrator to engage with national lawmakers sends the wrong signal and casts doubt on the sincerity of political actors in promoting transparency.”

APC National Leadership Yet to Respond

As of the time of filing this report, the national leadership of the All Progressives Congress had not made an official statement regarding Okocha’s absence. However, sources within the party hinted at internal discussions concerning the matter and potential disciplinary action.

One senior party official, who asked not to be named, stated that the issue had attracted significant attention within the party’s National Working Committee. “There are concerns that this kind of behavior, if not addressed, could damage the party’s image, especially in a state as politically strategic as Rivers,” the source said.

Conclusion: A Brewing Political Storm

Chief Tony Okocha’s refusal to appear before the House of Representatives for the second time adds fuel to an already tense political climate in Rivers State. As lawmakers weigh their next move, all eyes remain on how the APC leadership will handle the situation and whether the administrator will eventually respond to the call for accountability.

With more sessions scheduled in the coming weeks, political watchers anticipate that the impasse could evolve into a broader confrontation between the legislature and party functionaries if the trend of non-compliance continues.