The Speaker of the River State House of Assembly, Hon. Martin Amaewhule, on Monday reaffirmed the Assembly’s dedication to upholding the rule of law.
Speaking when the Executive Director of Finance and Administration (EDFA) of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Chief Boma Iyaye, paid a solidarity visit to the Assembly, Hon. Amaewhule said despite the challenges, they remain resolute in fulfilling their legislative duties.
Recall, only recently the Supreme Court restored the Martins Amaewhule-led Rivers State House of Assembly, arguing that its action followed the requirements of the 1999 constitution that a House of Assembly must be formed.
In the 62-page Certified True Copy of its judgment, the apex court ruled that there was “no iota or shred of evidence” to prove that the 27 lawmakers defected from the People’s Democratic Party (the basis upon which their seats were earlier declared vacant) to the All Progressives Congress.
Justice Emmanuel Agim, who signed the judgment, stated that the Constitution does not support Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s decision to recognize only four members as the authentic House of Assembly.
The court explained that Fubara initially accused the 27 lawmakers of defecting but later “voluntarily withdrew the allegations” at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
According to the court, since the allegation was withdrawn, “no defection had taken place,” and the Assembly must continue as it was.
The judgment stated that it would be “unlawful” for Fubara to engage with any Assembly other than the one led by Martins Amaewhule.
A statement by Martins Wachukwu, Special Assistant On Media to the Speaker, stated that while commending the NDDC Executive Director for his show of support, Hon. Amaewhule emphasised the Assembly’s commitment in making laws that will benefit the people of Rivers State.
He also commended the Commission`s for its ongoing developmental projects and programmes in the State, and applauded the ED for his unwavering support for the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.
Earlier, Hon. Iyaye congratulated the Speaker and members of the State Assembly on their Supreme Court victory.
He further highlighted several key projects being executed by the NDDC to improve the lives of the people of the Niger Delta, as he assured the lawmakers of his continued support.