*As pro-Wike lawmakers declare pro-Fubara lawmakers’ seats vacant
*Says they have been absent from sittings for 152 days consecutively
*Insist such prolonged absence without permission violates1999 Constitution
*Resolve to write INEC to conduct elections to replace such vacant seats within 90 days
By Our Correspondent
The political crisis rocking Rivers state took a new dimension yesterday as lawmakers loyal to the former Governor of the state and currently the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike led by Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Martin Amaewhule, on Tuesday, declared the seats of Edison Ehie, Chief of Staff to Governor Siminalayi Fubara, and three other pro-Fubara lawmakers vacant.
The decision was made during Tuesday’s plenary session, citing their absence from sittings for 152 consecutive days as reasons for their actions.
Speaker Amaewhule emphasized that Ehie’s failure to formally notify the House of his new office led to the declaration of his seat as vacant. “He did not properly write to inform the House of his new office,” Amaewhule stated.
Regarding Victor Oko-Jumbo and the two other lawmakers, the House held separate votes to declare their seats vacant due to their prolonged absence without notification or permission, violating the 1999 Constitution.
The Assembly has agreed to write to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct elections to replace the vacant seats within 90 days. This move aims to ensure representation for the affected constituencies.
Additionally, the House has given Governor Fubara another opportunity to present the 2024 Appropriations Bill. This comes after the Appeal Court nullified the N800 billion he had presented to a parallel House led by Edison Ehie.
