The Rivers State House of Assembly, under the leadership of Martin Amaewhule, has once again overridden Governor Siminialayi Fubara’s assent on three significant bills that had been previously approved and sent to him for approval.
The legislation in question includes the Rivers State Education (Return of Schools) (Amendment) Bill, the Rivers Electricity Market Bill, and the Rivers State Commissions of Inquiry Bill, 2024. These bills were presented to Governor Fubara one month ago.
During a session on Thursday, lawmakers aligned with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory took decisive action to override the governor’s reluctance to approve the bills. Speaker Amaewhule referenced Section 100(5) of the Constitution of Nigeria, which grants the House the authority to proceed without the governor’s approval when he withholds his assent. The members subsequently voted unanimously in favor of this move.
Following the decision, Speaker Amaewhule asserted that Governor Fubara’s inaction should not hinder progress within the state. He criticized the governor’s perceived inefficiency and underscored the House’s commitment to upholding constitutional and democratic principles. He emphasized that the three bills are now lawfully enforceable in Rivers State.
In response, a spokesperson for Governor Fubara dismissed the actions of the Pro-Wike lawmakers as ineffective, labeling them a “committee of friends.” He raised concerns about the feasibility of implementing the overridden laws and questioned the lawmakers’ commitment to serving the interests of Rivers citizens.
The recent developments highlight an ongoing political struggle within the state, raising questions about governance and legislative authority in Rivers.
