GLITZ TV
In a recent development, the Federal High Court in Abuja has issued an order prohibiting Governor Siminialayi Fubara from interfering with the activities of the Rivers State Assembly, which is led by Martin Amaewhule.
Furthermore, the court has also barred the National Assembly from entertaining any requests made by the governor to take over the functions of the Rivers Assembly.
Additionally, the court has directed Governor Fubara to release all funds allocated to the state assembly. Failure to comply with this order would be a violation of the principle of separation of powers as enshrined in the constitution.
Justice Omotosho, presiding over the case, also declared the reposting of the clerk and deputy clerk of the Rivers State Assembly by the state head of service as null and void.
The court ruled that the appointment of the clerk and deputy clerk is the responsibility of the speaker, as stated in the Rivers State Assembly Service Commission law, rather than the state civil service law.
These orders were made in response to a lawsuit filed by Martin Amaechule and the lawmakers against the governor.
This is the latest development in the ongoing political conflict in Rivers State, located in the South-South region of Nigeria.
Governor Fubara and his political godfather, Nyesom Wike, who currently serves as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, are engaged in a power struggle over control of the state.
In the ruling on Monday, the judge mandated the Inspector General of Police and the Nigeria Police Force to ensure the security of all citizens of Rivers State, including members of the State Assembly, as they carry out their duties.
Furthermore, the court declared that the purported presentation and subsequent passage of the Rivers State 2024 appropriation bill by a few members of the State Assembly is null and void from the beginning.
The court has also ordered a halt to the planned demolition and reconstruction of the Rivers State Assembly complex.
Additionally, the court ruled that Edison Ehie, who has resigned from his position as speaker and member of the Rivers State Assembly, no longer has the capacity to sue or be sued in any matter relating to the Rivers Assembly.
