A interim order has been obtained by a State High Court in Port Harcourt to enable the four members of the Rivers House of Assembly who support Governor Siminalayi Fubara to carry out legislative business without hindrance.
Due to a political power struggle between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, the assembly has been divided since October.
The division deepened when the pro-Wike group led by Martin Amaewhule tried to remove Governor Fubara from office, setting off a bombing at the assembly complex. The dispute escalated recently when the faction supported by Wike announced their defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC), leading to demands that their seats be declared vacant.
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The faction supported by Fubara, led by Edison Ehie, obtained a court order enabling them to carry out legislative functions in order to solidify power. Judge M.W. Danagogo’s court injunction prohibits the faction from interfering with its legally mandated legislative responsibilities.
Legal experts describe the incident as a “comedy of errors,” with questions over the legitimacy of the four faction members’ conduct. Legal expert Clement Onwuenwunor underlined the necessity of upholding the constitution to deter such behaviour.
Human rights attorney Inibehe Effiong emphasised that a quorum must consist of one-third of the members, as stipulated by the constitution, while acknowledging the legitimacy of the interim decision. He proposed that Ehie’s faction be allowed to carry out legislative duties until the court order is revoked.
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The political scene is becoming more unclear as a result of the court’s decision to postpone the case until December 21 for a hearing. In the midst of the protracted legal battle, Governor Fubara is scheduled to present a budget to the assembly.
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