The ongoing power struggle between Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and lawmakers loyal to his former mentor, Nyesom Wike, has reached the Supreme Court. Victor Oko Jumbo, the Speaker of the pro-Fubara lawmakers, announced that his faction has appealed the recent Appeal Court decision in Abuja.
The Appeal Court had nullified a Rivers State High Court order that barred Martin Amaewhule and other pro-Wike lawmakers from acting as legislators. The Court also stated that only the Federal High Court has the authority to rule on such matters.
In response, Governor Fubara assured that his administration remains committed to its development goals despite the ruling.
“We are not deterred. We have made our promises and will continue to provide good governance,” Fubara said after inspecting the Zonal Hospital project in Bori Town.
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Fubara quoted Psalm 23:5 from the Bible, saying, “God prepares a table before you; it can be before anybody… in the presence of your enemies. Nothing comes easy.”
He emphasized that the worst is over and his administration is moving forward with its plans for the state’s development.
Oko Jumbo criticized the Appeal Court’s decision, stating, “The Court of Appeal was in error when it held that the Rivers State High Court lacked the jurisdiction to hear and determine the case.”
He affirmed that there cannot be two Houses of Assembly in Rivers State and maintained his position as the legitimate Speaker.
“We have instructed our lawyers to file an appeal to the Supreme Court of Nigeria challenging the judgement of the Court of Appeal,” Oko Jumbo stated.
He insisted that Amaewhule and the 24 other lawmakers are not members of the Rivers State House of Assembly until a competent court decides otherwise.