Rivers State House of Assembly Sparks Necessary Reform by Declaring Seats of Lawmakers, Including Edison Ehie, Vacant

The Rivers State House of Assembly, led by Speaker Martin Amaewhule, has declared the seats of Edison Ehie, Chief of Staff to Governor Siminalayi Fubara, and three other lawmakers vacant. This decision, made during a plenary session, is seen as a major political shift within the state’s leadership. Ehie, a key figure in the governor’s administration, lost his seat due to his failure to formally notify Rivers State House of Assembly of his new position. The action highlights the Assembly’s commitment to upholding its rules and maintaining proper legislative conduct.

In a related move, the seats of three other lawmakers, including Victor Oko-Jumbo, were also declared vacant. The lawmakers were cited for failing to attend Rivers State House of Assembly sessions for an extended period—152 days—without notifying or seeking permission from the House, which is a violation of the 1999 Constitution. This decision underscores the Rivers State House of Assembly’s strict enforcement of its attendance rules and legislative protocols, ensuring that members remain accountable for their participation in the legislative process.

Rivers State House of Assembly : Edison Ehie’s Seat Declared Vacant Over Non-Notification

Edison Ehie, who recently assumed the role of Chief of Staff to Governor Fubara, did not notify the House of his new appointment. This breach of protocol prompted Speaker Martin Amaewhule to announce that his seat in the Assembly had been vacated. The Speaker noted that the failure to formally inform the legislative body was a key violation of the Rivers State House’s regulations.

By not adhering to this procedure, Ehie has not only lost his seat but also created a political stir within the state. The decision highlights the importance of transparency and communication in the operations of the state’s legislative process.

Continuous Absence: Three Lawmakers Lose Their Seats

Three lawmakers, including Victor Oko-Jumbo, were also declared to have vacated their seats after failing to attend Assembly sessions for 152 days. The Rivers State Constitution, which derives from the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, mandates that members of the legislature must not be absent for more than 180 days without prior permission.

The prolonged absence of these lawmakers was seen as a clear violation of the Constitution and Rivers State House of Assembly rules. Their failure to provide notification or seek approval for their absence led to the decision to formally vacate their seats, signaling the Assembly’s commitment to accountability.

Speaker Amaewhule’s Strict Adherence to Legislative Rules

Speaker Martin Amaewhule has established himself as a leader who values adherence to the rules governing the Rivers State House of Assembly. His decision to vacate the seats of Edison Ehie and the three other lawmakers underscores the importance of following legislative protocols.

Under Amaewhule’s leadership, the Assembly has shown that it will not tolerate any violations of its procedures, no matter the political stature of those involved. This decision sets a precedent for future lawmakers in the state, reinforcing the principle that all members are bound by the same rules.

Political Tensions Rise Amid Fubara Administration

The decision to declare the seats of key lawmakers loyal to Governor Fubara vacant is likely to heighten political tensions within the state. As these lawmakers were seen as close allies of the governor, their removal may affect the balance of power in the state legislature.

This development could also have implications for Governor Fubara’s administration, as the loss of these loyalists may weaken his influence within the Assembly. The political fallout from this decision is expected to unfold in the coming weeks, with many watching how the governor will respond to this new challenge.

The Broader Implications for Rivers State Politics

The vacancy of these seats marks a turning point in Rivers State politics. It reflects a growing emphasis on accountability and the enforcement of legislative rules. The move by Speaker Amaewhule may inspire similar actions in other states, encouraging more strict adherence to the protocols that govern legislative bodies.

As Rivers State House of Assembly prepares for potential by-elections to fill the vacant seats, the political landscape is likely to shift. The situation highlights the complex interplay between executive and legislative powers, setting the stage for further political maneuvering.