Rivers Reps Declare 27 Lawmakers Lost Their Seats Over Wike’s Defection
A political storm is brewing in Rivers State as the state’s caucus in the House of Representatives firmly declared that Martin Amaewhule and 26 other lawmakers loyal to Minister Nyesom Wike have lost their seats due to their defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Voicing their unwavering support for Governor Siminalayi Fubara, the lawmakers condemned the recent visit by some National Assembly members to the pro-Wike Speaker, Martin Amaewhule.
Solidarity Visit with Fubara’s Assembly Speaker
Leading the charge, Awaji-Inombek Abiante, the House Leader and member for Andoni-Opobo/Nkoro, spearheaded a solidarity visit to Victor Oko-Jumbo, the pro-Fubara Assembly Speaker, in Port Harcourt. Accompanying him were other notable lawmakers, including Boma Goodhead (Akuku-Toru/Asari-Toru), Boniface Emerengwa (Ikwerre/Emohua), Anderson Allison Igbiks (Okrika/Ogu-Bolo), and Manuchim Umezurike (Port Harcourt Federal Constituency 1).
The lawmakers expressed dismay over the growing divisions in the state’s legislature, exacerbated by Amaewhule’s December defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to APC, and have stood firmly with Fubara’s government.
Legal Battle Heats Up Amidst Deepening Crisis
The political turmoil in Rivers escalated after Amaewhule and his 26 allies made their switch in December 2023, yet they continue to deny their defection, claiming they remain in the PDP. However, Abiante and other federal lawmakers did not hold back, accusing the defectors of dishonesty and claiming that their actions were nothing short of unfortunate.
Abiante, referencing Supreme Court rulings on defection cases, emphasized that Amaewhule and his allies had automatically lost their seats. He cited Sections 109(1)(g) and 68(1)(g) of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution, stating that any lawmaker who defects to another party is constitutionally bound to lose their legislative seat from the date of defection.
Fubara’s Legislative Agenda Gains Momentum
Amidst the heated political climate, Oko-Jumbo reassured the visiting caucus of his commitment to the people of Rivers State. “The former 27 lawmakers are gone, and we remain focused on delivering good governance. Our job is to make laws that will benefit our people,” Oko-Jumbo said.
As the political crisis shows no signs of abating, the Fubara administration and his allies in the state legislature remain steadfast in their determination to push forward with legislative priorities and ensure stability in Rivers State’s governance.
