Court restrains Amaewhule, 24 others from parading as Rivers Assembly members
…As Police barricade Assembly quarters
By Barth Ndubuwah, Port-Harcourt
A High Court sitting in Port Harcourt Friday restrained former Speaker, Martins Amaewhule and 24 others from parading themselves as members of the Rivers State House of Assembly.
The Presiding Judge,Justice C. N Wali gave the order following an ex parte motion brought before him by the new Speaker, Rt. Hon Victor Oko-Jumbo, Leader, Hon Sokari Goodboy and Hon Orubienimigha Timothy.
The court also restrained the Governor of Rivers State,Sir Siminilayi Fubara, the Attorney General of the State and the State Chief Judge from “interfacing, accepting any resolutions, bills and/or howsoever interacting with the 1st- 25th Defendants in their purported capacities as members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, their legislative seats having been declared vacant with effect from 13th December,2023 pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice.”
“It is further Ordered that this Order, the Motion on Notice and the writ and other processes in this case be served on the 1st- 25th Defendants / Respondents within seven (7) days from date by substituted means to wit:by pasting at the entrance gate of the Rivers State House of Assembly Legislative Quarters ,Off Aba Road,Port Harcourt and for such service to be deemed good and proper.”
The Judge adjourned the case to the 29th May, 2024 for hearing.
Meanwhile, the Rivers State Police Command has justified its barricade of the Rivers State House of Assembly Quarters, insisting that it is to maintain peace and ensure that law and order do not break down in the State.
This clarification was contained in a statement issued by the PPRO of the Command,SP Grace Iringe-Koko in Port Harcourt.
According to her, “The Rivers State Police Command wishes to clarify the recent reports regarding our presence at the Rivers State House of Assembly quarters. Our deployment in the area is solely aimed at ensuring peace and preventing any possible breakdown of order. We assure the public that there is no cause for alarm, and all individuals are encouraged to continue their lawful activities without fear. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated as we work towards maintaining a safe and secure environment for all.”
The Court also directed the former, Amaewhule and 24 colleagues to submit within seven days all Properties of the Rivers State House of Assembly in their disposal.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara has in an Executive Order directed relocation of plenary of the State Assembly to government house.
