A State High Court in Port Harcourt has granted a temporary order allowing the four-member faction of the Rivers House of Assembly, loyal to Governor Siminalayi Fubara, to conduct legislative business without interference.
The assembly had been split since October, stemming from a political power struggle between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike.
The split escalated when the faction led by Martin Amaewhule, supportive of Mr. Wike, attempted to impeach Governor Fubara, resulting in a bombing incident at the assembly complex. Recently, the crisis deepened as the Wike-backed faction announced their defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC), triggering calls for their seats to be declared vacant.
To consolidate power, Edison Ehie, leader of the Fubara-backed faction, secured a court order allowing them to perform legislative duties. The court order, granted by Judge M.W. Danagogo, restrains interference in the faction’s statutory legislative duties.
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Legal experts view the situation as a “comedy of errors,” with concerns raised about the legality of actions taken by the four-member faction. Clement Onwuenwunor, a legal practitioner, emphasized the need to enforce the constitution to discourage such actions.
Human Rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong acknowledged the interim order’s validity but highlighted the constitutional requirement for one-third of members to form a quorum. He suggested that, based on the court order, Ehie’s faction can perform legislative functions until the order is vacated.
The court has adjourned the case to December 21 for a hearing, adding uncertainty to the political landscape as Governor Fubara is expected to present a budget to the assembly amidst the ongoing legal tussle.