Rivers State Assembly Faction Convenes Plenary at Unlikely Venue
Amidst the recent demolition of the Rivers State House of Assembly Complex ordered by Governor Siminalayi Fubara, reports indicate that a faction consisting of twenty-six members convened a plenary session at the assembly’s residential quarters auditorium. The decision to demolish the Assembly Complex was attributed to the need for reconstruction after an alleged “arson attack” on October 29, 2023. The lawmakers, who recently defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), allegedly enjoy support from the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister.
Led by Martins Amaewhule, this faction’s plenary session occurred in response to the declaration of their seats as vacant by a five-man group led by Edison Ehie on Wednesday due to their defection. During the unconventional session, the lawmakers expressed strong disapproval of the state government’s decision to demolish the Assembly Complex.
In a motion moved by Ofiks Kagbang, the representative of the Andoni constituency, the lawmakers unanimously condemned the demolition, categorizing it as a matter of urgent public importance. The session also saw Major Jack presenting the report on the Rivers State Local Government Amendment Bill to the Speaker, which received adoption.
Amaewhule highlighted the significance of the proposed Bill, stating that if passed into law, it would curtail the governor’s authority to dissolve Local Government Executives. The session shed light on the lawmakers’ stance against the actions of the state government, particularly the demolition of the Assembly Complex, which they perceive as a critical move against their political activities.
Source: Politics Nigeria
