Power struggle in Rivers as Pro-Wike lawmakers override Gov Fubara’s veto
In a significant move, the Rivers State House of Assembly, led by Speaker Martin Amaewhule, has overridden Governor Siminialayi Fubara’s refusal to assent to three key bills presented a month ago.
The bills in question are the Rivers State Education (Return of Schools) (Amendment) Bill, the Rivers Electricity Market Bill, and the Rivers State Commissions of Inquiry Bill, 2024.
During Thursday’s plenary session, lawmakers loyal to Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike invoked Section 100(5) of the 1999 Constitution, which grants the legislature the authority to override the governor’s veto.
The motion was introduced by Majority Leader Major Jack and received unanimous approval following a spirited debate.
Speaker Amaewhule took aim at Governor Fubara, accusing him of stalling progress through “indolence and ineptitude.”
He stated that the House would uphold constitutional provisions to ensure the continued development of the state, asserting that the laws are now in effect despite the governor’s objections.
In response, Jerry Omatsogunwa, Special Assistant to Governor Fubara on Electronic Media, dismissed the Assembly’s actions, labeling the legislators a “committee of friends” and questioning the effectiveness of the laws without the governor’s cooperation.
Omatsogunwa also accused the lawmakers of working against the interests of the people of Rivers.
He likened the Assembly’s efforts to “children shaking a coconut tree,” arguing that the actions of the lawmakers would only harm themselves and alienate the public.
Omatsogunwa urged the Assembly to prioritize the state’s welfare over politically motivated agendas.
(AFRIPOST)
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