By Our Reporter
Ehie Edison, the Chief of Staff to the suspended Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, has strongly refuted claims made by George Nwaeke, the former Head of Service, who alleged in a television interview that Edison was involved in the burning of the State House of Assembly Complex. Edison described Nwaeke as a discontented individual, asserting that the former Head of Service was not speaking from a rational mindset.
During an appearance on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, Edison dismissed Nwaeke’s accusations, suggesting that Nwaeke had succumbed to political pressures in his pursuit of personal wealth. To support his position, Edison displayed WhatsApp messages in which Nwaeke had solicited financial assistance shortly after resigning from his post as Head of Service, further emphasizing Nwaeke’s lack of contentment.
Edison also denied Nwaeke’s claims of having a close relationship with Governor Fubara. He emphasized that Nwaeke did not have private meetings with the governor and was not on the list of individuals granted direct access to the Government House.
Edison stated: “George Nwaeke has never, and is not even in the protocol list of those who can have uninterrupted access to the governor.” He further challenged Nwaeke to provide proof of any meetings with Fubara since October 29, 2023, without proper security clearance from the Department of State Services (DSS).
According to Edison, the security protocols and clearance for Government House are strictly supervised by him and the DSS. He urged Nwaeke to publicly provide evidence if he had indeed visited the governor without prior clearance.
In response to the allegations, Edison revealed that he had instructed his lawyer to file a criminal libel suit against Nwaeke, asserting that he would not engage in further public disputes. He urged Nwaeke to be prepared to substantiate his claims in court.
“I will not join issues with Mr. George Nwaeke, as I have already instructed my lawyers to file a suit for criminal libel. I hope he is well-prepared to support his accusations with evidence,” Edison said.
Recall that the former Head of the Rivers State Civil Service, George Nwaeke, had alleged in a recent interview of mind-boggling theft under the watch of suspended governor Fubara, adding that he would provide evidence to security operatives when called upon.
As the situation unfolds, Edison remains steadfast in his denial of all allegations and his commitment to pursuing legal action.