Lawyers have commented on the escalating political crisis in Rivers State, sparked by the appeal court's decision to overturn the order sacking state lawmakers loyal to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike. Following the judgment, 24 pro-Wike lawmakers, led by Rt. Hon. Martin Chike Amaewhule, convened to initiate impeachment proceedings against Governor Sir Siminalayi Fubara. Concurrently, three lawmakers loyal to the governor, led by Rt. Hon. Victor Oko-Jumbo, held a separate session to confirm Barrister Emmanuel Onengiye-Ofori Frank-Fubara as commissioner.
Pro-Wike Rivers Assembly Members
Barrister Chukwudi Igwe expressed concern over the appellate court's order, suggesting pro-Fubara lawmakers should seek a stay of the order from the Supreme Court or file a new application at the Federal High Court. Henry Ekine argued that only one legitimate House of Assembly exists, led by Oko-Jumbo, and that the December 2023 defection of the Amaewhule-led lawmakers to the APC meant they had forfeited their seats.
In contrast, Frank Tietie of CASER asserted that the Court of Appeal’s order did not strip the 24 pro-Wike lawmakers of their seats. Rufus Godwins supported this view, emphasizing Amaewhule’s position as the rightful speaker according to the appellate court, and condemning the high court’s order barring impeachment proceedings as contempt.
According to Daily Trust reports, lawyer Rufus Godwins said that the high court’s order barring the chief judge from receiving any impeachment notice from the Amaewhule-led assembly members constituted contempt punishable by law.