Supreme Court Begins Hearing on Rivers State House of Assembly Leadership Tussle

The Supreme Court has commenced hearing on the appeal filed by Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Victor Oko-Jumbo against the judgment that validated Martin Amaewhule’s speakership and invalidated the 2024 budget passage. This development is the latest twist in the protracted leadership tussle rocking the Rivers State House of Assembly.

Background of the Crisis

The crisis began when a group of five lawmakers, led by Edison Ehie, passed the 2024 budget in a controversial session. However, the validity of the budget was challenged in court, leading to a series of legal battles. The Court of Appeal ultimately upheld the decision of the Federal High Court, which nullified the N800 billion budget.

Court of Appeal’s Judgment

The appeal court’s judgment also held that Governor Fubara should represent the budget to the Martins Amaewhule-led Assembly. This decision was seen as a major setback for the governor and his allies. However, in a subsequent development, a Federal High Court dismissed a suit seeking to stop Fubara from re-presenting the 2024 budget.

Supreme Court’s Intervention

The Supreme Court’s decision to hear the appeal filed by Governor Fubara and Victor Oko-Jumbo has raised hopes that the protracted crisis may soon be resolved. The apex court’s intervention is expected to bring clarity to the leadership tussle and provide a definitive answer to the questions surrounding the validity of the 2024 budget.

Implications of the Supreme Court’s Decision

The Supreme Court’s decision will have far-reaching implications for the people of Rivers State. If the court upholds the appeal, it may pave the way for Governor Fubara to re-present the budget to the Assembly. On the other hand, if the court dismisses the appeal, it may cement Martin Amaewhule’s position as the Speaker of the House of Assembly.

The Supreme Court’s hearing on the Rivers State House of Assembly leadership tussle marks a critical juncture in the protracted crisis. As the apex court deliberates on the appeal, the people of Rivers State await with bated breath, hoping that the decision will bring an end to the political impasse and pave the way for good governance.