Rivers Crisis: According to Martins Amaewhule-led Assembly Moves to Repeal Commission of Inquiry Law 1999

Under Martins Amaewhule’s direction, the Rivers State House of Assembly has started the process of repealing the 1999 Commission of Inquiry Law, also referred to as Cap 30 of the former Rivers State. This action follows the creation of a Judicial Commission of Inquiry by the state government to look into the damage of local government secretariats amid disturbances that followed the most recent local government elections.CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>

According to The Nation, the Commission had summoned prominent figures such as the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, and the APC Caretaker Committee Chairman, Tony Okocha, both of whom refused to attend.

The bill, co-sponsored by Deputy Speaker Dumle Maol, Lolo Opuende, and Sylvanus Nwankwo, aims to replace the outdated law with a more current one, better suited to the democratic realities of today.

Maol explained that the law’s origins date back to colonial times and needs modernization.

During the second reading of the bill, lawmakers emphasized the importance of reform, with Speaker Amaewhule noting that the new law would ensure proper checks and balances between the Governor, the Assembly, and any commissions established.

The bill has been referred to the House Committee on Judiciary for further scrutiny, while the Public Complaints and Petitions Committee continues its investigation into the October disturbances.CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>