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The Rivers State House of Assembly, led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, has passed three bills into law without Governor Siminialayi Fubara's approval. This decision comes amidst ongoing political tensions between pro-Wike lawmakers and Governor Fubara.
Speaker Amaewhule, along with 20 lawmakers loyal to Nyesom Wike, justified the move by citing Section 100(5) of the Nigerian Constitution, which allows the legislature to override a governor’s rejection of bills. He accused the governor of placing personal interests above governance, hindering the state's progress.
The three bills enacted are:
1. Rivers State Education (Return of Schools) (Amendment) Bill,
2. Rivers Electricity Market Bill,
3. Rivers State Commissions of Inquiry Bill 2024.
According to the Assembly, these bills were transmitted to Governor Fubara over a month ago but were not signed into law. The majority leader, Major Jack, re-presented the bills, which were debated and approved on January 9.
The political rift between Fubara and Wike, the current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has caused divisions within the House. Reports indicate that 27 lawmakers loyal to Wike have defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) but still claim membership in the People's Democratic Party (PDP).
This development highlights the deepening crisis in Rivers State politics as both factions vie for control.
