The ongoing power struggle between Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and lawmakers loyal to his estranged godfather and Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike has now reached the Supreme Court, according to Punch.
Speaker Victor Oko Jumbo's factional assembly has lodged an appeal at the top court to contest a recent ruling by the Abuja Appeal Court.
Recall that the Appeal Court had overturned a decision by a Rivers State High Court that had barred Amaewhule and other pro-Wike lawmakers from serving as legislators, noting that only the Federal High Court has jurisdiction over such matters.
Governor Fubara responded by affirming that his administration remains resolute in the face of the appeal court's ruling.
Through a statement from his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, the governor reiterated his dedication to enhancing the state's infrastructure and services.
He expressed confidence in overcoming the government's challenges, mentioning a biblical reference to underline the importance of perseverance amidst opposition.
Governor Fubara assured the people of Rivers State that his administration will fulfill its commitments and maintain good governance despite the hurdles.
He pointed to continuing infrastructure projects, such as the ongoing reconstruction of the Zonal Hospital project in Bori Town, as evidence of his government's unwavering focus on the state's progress.
In a statement released by Speaker Oko-Jumbo of the Rivers State House of Assembly, he discusses a recent ruling by the Court of Appeal and the subsequent steps taken by his faction.
Oko-Jumbo's faction is of the opinion that the Appeal Court's ruling was flawed, especially in its conclusions regarding the jurisdiction of the Rivers State High Court and the status of certain individuals in the House of Assembly.
Oko-Jumbo firmly asserts that there cannot be two separate Houses of Assembly in Rivers State or any state in Nigeria, emphasizing that the Assembly under his leadership is the only legitimate one in Rivers State.
He points out that the Appeal Court did not definitively establish the membership status of individuals like Martin Amaewhule and 24 others in the Rivers State House of Assembly.
Therefore, his faction has filed an appeal with the Supreme Court of Nigeria to challenge the judgment of the Appeal Court and correct what they perceive as errors in the ruling.
The statement stresses that unless a court of competent jurisdiction rules otherwise, individuals such as Martin Amaewhule are not considered members of the Rivers State House of Assembly by Oko-Jumbo's faction.
The faction is dedicated to pursuing legal avenues to address and clarify the issues arising from the Appeal Court's decision.