The Rivers State House of Assembly (RSHA) is calling on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to take swift action and hold a bye-election to fill 25 vacant seats. Speaker Hon. Victor Oko-Jumbo expressed his disappointment with INEC’s delay, emphasizing the urgency of the matter to support Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s administration.
These seats were declared vacant in December 2023 by the former speaker following a wave of defections. The RSHA has repeatedly reached out to INEC requesting a bye-election to ensure proper representation, but their appeals have so far gone unanswered.
Adding to the pressure on INEC, Deputy Speaker Hon. Adolphus Orubienimigha called for accountability from the former members who continue to operate unlawfully as lawmakers despite their seats being declared vacant. The Assembly is prepared to take legal action against these individuals, including former member Martin Amaewhule, citing violations of the 1999 Constitution.
During a recent House meeting, members also issued a warning to supporters of former Governor Nyesom Wike, urging them to cease any interference with the current state government’s activities. The House released a statement condemning the actions of the former lawmakers, stating that their continued presence undermines the integrity of the Assembly and violates the constitution.
In a separate development, the House approved the appointment of five special advisers to further bolster development initiatives within the state.
By Helen Okechukwu
