Four politicians, including Edison Ehie, Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s chief of staff, have had their seats declared vacant by the Rivers State House of Assembly, led by Speaker Martin Amaewhule, because they had missed 152 days of legislative sessions.During a plenary session on Tuesday, Amaewhule explained that Ehie failed to formally inform the Assembly about his new appointment, resulting in the declaration of his seat as vacant.CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
For the other lawmakers, including Victor Oko-Jumbo, the House conducted three separate votes to confirm their absenteeism, which violated the 1999 Constitution.
According to Daily Post, the Assembly emphasized the importance of attendance and accountability in governance.
In a bid to restore representation for the affected constituencies, the House resolved to notify the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct elections within 90 days to fill the vacant seats.
Additionally, the Assembly has granted Governor Fubara another opportunity to present the 2024 Appropriations Bill.
This follows a recent Appeal Court decision that nullified the N800 billion budget previously submitted to a parallel Assembly led by Ehie.
These developments underscore the ongoing political tensions within Rivers State as factions continue to clash, impacting legislative functions and governance.
The situation remains dynamic, with further actions anticipated from both the Assembly and the Governor.CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
