Edison Ehie and George Nwaeke

Edison Ehie, Chief of Staff to suspended Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, has denied allegations that he was involved in the burning of the Rivers State House of Assembly complex on October 29, 2023.

Former Head of Service, George Nwaeke, had accused both Fubara and Ehie of masterminding the incident. However, speaking on Sunday Politics on Channels Television, Ehie dismissed the claims, stating, “I had no hand in the burning of the Rivers State House of Assembly. Like everyone else, I woke up on October 30, 2023, to hear the news.”

Ehie revealed that he has instructed his lawyers to file a criminal libel lawsuit against Nwaeke, challenging him to provide evidence to substantiate his claims.

He also alleged that Speaker of the Assembly, Martins Amaewhule, should be questioned regarding the fire, claiming it started shortly after security officials allowed the speaker’s convoy into the complex.

Accusing Nwaeke of seeking financial gain, Ehie presented WhatsApp messages where Nwaeke allegedly requested financial assistance after resigning as Head of Service. He argued that Nwaeke’s actions were politically motivated and influenced by personal interests.

Furthermore, Ehie refuted claims of Nwaeke’s close relationship with Governor Fubara, stating that Nwaeke was not among those granted direct access to the governor. “The records at Government House and security clearance from the DSS will show that Nwaeke never had unrestricted access to the governor,” he said.

Ehie maintained that Nwaeke’s accusations were baseless and aimed at tarnishing reputations, vowing to take legal action to defend himself.