Edison Ehie, chief of staff who suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, strongly denied claims he played any role in the burning of the Rivers state capitol on October 29, 2023.
The charge was accused by former Rivers service director George Nwaeke of Ehie and Fubara of orchestrating the fire that destroyed the state’s parliamentary complex.
However, Ehie appeared on the scene in the channel’s political plan on Sunday, refuting the claim, saying he was not involved in the incident.
“It is very important to clarify that I am not, I have no hands, nor is it part of the Rivers State Capitol,” Ehie said he stressed that like many others, he was shocked by the news.
He further said, “Like everyone else, I woke up in the early hours of October 30, 2023 and heard the burning of the River State Capitol.”
Esch further revealed that he had directed lawyers to file a criminal defamation lawsuit against Nwaeke, stressing that the allegations were baseless and malicious.
“I will not be fully involved with Mr. George Nwaeke because I have directed my attorney to raise criminal libel issues against George Nwaeke and I hope he is ready to confirm his claims and allegations.” He said.
While defending himself, Ehie turned his attention to the speaker of the River State Capitol Martins Amaewhulehinted that he should be asked about the fire.
Ehie claimed that the fire broke out after security officials allowed the convoy of speakers to enter the building. He hinted that speaker participation should be further reviewed.
Ehie accused Nwaeke of succumbing to political pressure and taking action to benefit from “emergency wealth.” “George is not a satisfied person,” He said the refutation of Nwaeke’s motivation was politically driven.
Esch also spoke about the recent public outcry against Nwaeke’s wife, whose husband suddenly disappeared.
He suggested that this situation reflects a man who “betrayed his conscience” and his family in pursuit of material interests.
Ehie claimed that Nwaeke sought financial aid shortly after serving as service director and cited whatsapp message that Nwaeke asked for money.
“He is not speaking from the right spiritual framework.” Ehie added that this means Nwaeke’s behavior is influenced by personal ambitions, not any real political or legal issues.
Finally, Ehie said Nwaeke had no important role or influence in the governance of the River State.
“George did not play any special or influential role in the governance of the river state,” He said it further undermined Nwaeke’s credibility in the political landscape.
